HAL Accelerates Tejas, Su-30 Programmes to Strengthen Indian Air Force

Bengaluru: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has stepped up production of India’s indigenous combat aircraft, marking significant progress in key aerospace programmes. HAL has expanded its assembly line up to the 32nd Tejas Mk1A aircraft, with final integration expected to accelerate as General Electric increases deliveries of F404 engines.

The company also confirmed that the first flight of the Tejas Mk2, India’s next-generation light combat fighter, is targeted between March and July 2027. The advanced aircraft is expected to enhance the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities with improved range, payload, and avionics.

In another major development, HAL has initiated preliminary preparations to manufacture 12 new Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets, further strengthening the Indian Air Force’s heavy fighter fleet. The simultaneous progress of the Tejas and Su-30 programmes reflects India’s continued push towards defence modernisation and greater self-reliance in aerospace manufacturing.