In a landmark move to bolster the Indian Air Force (IAF) and advance self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a ₹62,370 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 97 Tejas Mark-1A jets. Announced on September 25, 2025, the deal includes 68 single-seat fighters and 29 twin-seat trainers, along with associated equipment, under the ‘Buy (India-IDDM)’ category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020. For aviation enthusiasts, defence analysts, and policymakers searching India HAL Tejas deal 2025, Tejas Mark-1A procurement, or IAF indigenous jets, this agreement—HAL’s largest for the indigenous platform—will commence deliveries in 2027-28 over six years, featuring over 64% indigenous content and advanced systems like the Uttam AESA radar. Building on the 2021 Rs 48,000 crore order for 83 jets, it addresses the IAF’s squadron shortfall (29 vs. 42 needed) by replacing ageing MiG-21s.
The contract underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, with HAL poised to ramp up production amid global supply chain shifts.
Deal Breakdown: 97 Jets with Advanced Indigenous Tech
The Tejas Mark-1A, an upgraded 4.5-generation multirole fighter, incorporates cutting-edge features for enhanced combat capabilities. The agreement emphasizes local manufacturing, with 67 new indigenous items integrated, including the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite and control actuators.
Key details:
- Configuration: 68 single-seaters for combat roles; 29 twin-seaters for training.
- Indigenous Content: Over 64% Indian-sourced components, up from previous contracts.
- Timeline: First deliveries in 2027-28; full completion by 2033-34.
- Cost: ₹62,370 crore (excluding taxes), the second-largest Tejas order after the 83-jet deal.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted: “This procurement will significantly enhance the IAF’s operational readiness.”
| Component | Quantity | Role | Indigenous Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Seat Fighters | 68 | Combat | Uttam AESA Radar |
| Twin-Seat Trainers | 29 | Training | Swayam Raksha Kavach EW Suite |
| Total | 97 | – | 64% Local Content |
Strategic Significance: Strengthening IAF Amid Squadron Shortfall
The IAF currently operates 31 squadrons against a sanctioned 42 to counter threats from China and Pakistan, with MiG-21s phasing out by 2025. The Tejas Mk-1A, with its delta-wing design and GE F404 engine, fills critical gaps, boasting superior avionics and agility.
- Self-Reliance Boost: Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, supporting 105 Indian vendors and HAL’s Bengaluru facility.
- Global Context: Follows PM Modi’s Tejas sortie in August 2025, signaling confidence in indigenous tech.
- Future Fleet: Part of plans for 500+ fighters over two decades, including Mk-2 and AMCA.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh noted in September 2023: “The IAF has decided to order 97 more Mark 1A jets.”
Challenges and Implementation: Production Ramp-Up and Delays
HAL faces scrutiny over timelines—the 83-jet order’s first delivery slipped to February 2025. The new contract includes penalties for delays, with GE supplying 99 F404 engines by 2029.
- Production Hurdle: HAL must scale from 16 jets annually to meet deadlines.
- Engine Supply: GE contract worth ₹5,375 crore ensures availability.
- Budget Alignment: Fits within FY26 defence outlay of ₹6.2 lakh crore.
Conclusion: Tejas Deal Powers India’s Aerial Ambitions
The ₹62,370 crore Tejas Mark-1A deal isn’t just procurement—it’s a leap toward 100 GW nuclear and 42-squadron IAF goals, embodying self-reliance. As deliveries begin in 2027, HAL’s ramp-up will test resolve. NDTV
