HAL eyes beginning delivery of LCA Mk-1A to Air Force by year-end | Exclusive
The Indian Air Force has placed two orders for 180 Mk-1A fighter jets worth a combined ₹1.1 lakh crore.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) anticipates commencing the delivery of the light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by the end of this year, according to its chairman and managing director Ravi K. In his first interview since assuming charge on May 1, K said the final radar and weapons-integration issues are being addressed and resolved within a month.
The LCA Mk-1A is vital for bolstering the IAF's fighter fleet, which is facing a shortage. HAL is producing 24 Mk-1As annually, and even without engine availability, can fulfill the order as per the IAF's three to four-year timeline. The IAF has placed orders for 180 Mk-1A jets worth ₹1.1 lakh crore. HAL plans to deliver around 10 fighter jets to the IAF in FY 2026-27.
The next-generation LCA Mk-2 programme is also progressing, and HAL has completed the front, center, and rear fuselage joining of the airframe. A joint production deal with GE Aerospace for the F414 engines for the LCA Mk-2 is under negotiation, involving 80% technology transfer.
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