Wings of Self-Reliance: Tejas Mark 1A Jets Set to Boost IAF by September

A New Chapter for Indian Air Force Begins

Wings of Self-Reliance: Tejas Mark 1A – India is ready to take a big step in strengthening its air defence. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will receive its first two Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets by the end of September 2025. This news was confirmed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh during the NDTV Defence Summit. These jets are part of India’s push to become self-reliant in defence, a goal known as “Atmanirbharta.”

The Tejas Mark 1A is an upgraded version of the original Tejas fighter jet. It is designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a government-owned company. The new jets will replace the ageing MiG-21 aircraft and are expected to become the backbone of the IAF in the coming years.

What Makes Tejas Mark 1A Special?

The Tejas Mark 1A is not just another fighter jet, it’s a symbol of India’s growing strength in defence technology. Here are some key features:

• Advanced Avionics: The jet comes with modern radar systems and electronic warfare capabilities.
• Weapons Integration: The first two jets will be delivered with full weapons systems, ready for combat.
• Indigenous Content: Over 65% of the jet’s components are made in India, supporting local industries.
• Lightweight and Agile: Tejas is known for its speed and maneuverability, making it ideal for quick missions.

Defence Secretary Singh mentioned that HAL has already built 10 jets, and two engines have been delivered. The remaining jets will follow soon, with a strong order book for the next four to five years.

Why This Matters for India

Receiving the Tejas Mark 1A jets is more than just a military upgrade—it’s a major step toward India’s independence in defence production. Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government came to power in 2014, there has been a strong focus on making India self-reliant. Singh emphasized that 75% of India’s defence capital expenditure is now spent within the country.

This move helps India in several ways:

• Strategic Autonomy: India can make its own defence decisions without depending on foreign suppliers.
• Economic Growth: Local production creates jobs and boosts small and medium enterprises.
• Global Influence: A strong defence sector increases India’s position on the world stage.

The Tejas programme also encourages foreign companies to invest and manufacture in India, helping the country become a global hub for defence technology.

What’s Next for Tejas and the IAF?

The delivery of the first two jets is just the beginning. In August 2025, the Indian government approved the purchase of 97 more Tejas Mark 1A jets, adding to the earlier order of 83 aircraft. This means the IAF will eventually have around 180 Tejas Mark 1A jets in its fleet.

These jets will work alongside other aircraft like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the upcoming Tejas Mark 2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Together, they will form a powerful and modern air force capable of defending India’s skies.

Singh also spoke about the need to improve India’s drone capabilities. While civilian drones are growing fast, military-grade drones still need more development. The recent Operation Sindoor showed that India’s air defence systems are strong, but there’s room for improvement in unmanned technology.

Final Thought:
The arrival of Tejas Mark 1A jets marks a proud moment for India. It shows how far the country has come in building its own defence systems. With more jets on the way and a clear focus on self-reliance, India is flying high both literally and symbolically. The skies are no longer the limit.

Also read – India’s Bold Defence Move: 97 Tejas Jets to Power the Skies

India’s Tejas Mk-1A Takes Flight: A Strategic Setback for China and Pakistan’s Air Supremacy Dreams

Stay informed with the latest news and updates – only on Rapido Updates.