Rajnath Singh Reviews HAL Projects, Tracks Progress of Delayed Tejas Mk-1A Programme

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday reviewed major projects being executed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), with delays in the delivery of Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF) featuring prominently during the discussions.

The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff Gen N S Raja Subramani , Air Chief Marshal A P Singh , Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh , and HAL CMD Ravi Kota . Sources said Singh urged HAL to set realistic timelines for key defence programmes and suggested that HAL and the IAF work together to resolve pending issues affecting the Tejas Mk-1A project.

The fighter jet programme has faced delays due to technical specifications raised by the IAF and late engine deliveries from GE Aerospace , which powers the aircraft. GE has so far supplied six engines, impacting HAL's delivery schedule.

Despite the setbacks, HAL has reportedly completed production of at least 18 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft , which are expected to be delivered this year once the required engines become available.

The review highlighted the progress and challenges of a programme critical to the IAF's modernisation plans. The force currently operates 29 fighter squadrons , well below its sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons , making the induction of Tejas jets a priority.

The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹48,000-crore contract with HAL in 2021 for 83 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft , followed by another ₹62,370-crore deal last year for 97 additional jets . The programme remains central to India's efforts to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing and enhance air combat capabilities.