The Indian Air Force (IAF) is expected to acquire up to 97 Mark-1A Tejas fighters through what is described as the largest contract in its history with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), valued at 66,500 crore. This announcement comes just one day before the retirement of Russian-made MiG-21 fighter jets, marking a significant transition in India’s aerial combat capabilities. According to The Times of India, the deal for the purchase of 97 fourth-generation Tejas jets may be finalized on Thursday. The timing is crucial as it coincides with the phase-out of 36 aging MiG-21s, reducing the IAF to a record low of 29 fighter squadrons, each typically consisting of 16 to 18 aircraft.
This decision follows insights gained from Operation Sindoor, during which Pakistan utilized Chinese-owned J-10 aircraft equipped with PL-15 missiles. An IAF review revealed that even the authorized strength of 42.5 fighter squadrons is insufficient, emphasizing the urgent need to bolster India’s aerial capabilities. An insider mentioned that the IAF insisted the new contract be signed only after the delivery of the previous batch of fourth-generation Tejas fighters had commenced, holding HAL accountable for timely deliveries. The defense ministry has strict budgetary deadlines, with the initial payment to HAL being made once the contract is formalized.
The IAF has consistently voiced concerns about the slow pace of Tejas production, stressing that the fleet upgrade by 2025 should not be compromised in pursuit of self-reliance. The retirement of the MiG-21, which has been a cornerstone of the IAF for over six decades, was officially marked in a ceremony in Chandigarh, the city where the aircraft was first introduced over 60 years ago. This transition signifies the conclusion of an era and paves the way for new indigenously manufactured fighters like the Tejas to shape the future of Indian airpower.
