First “Production” In India Tejas MK1a Conducted A Covert First Flight

The first prototype of the Tejas Mk1A, which is actually the intended mass-production version of the Tejas and the base for all others, has made its first flight in secrecy, according to Indian authorities. According to the Indian Ministry of Defense, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited [HAL] carried out the test flight close to their manufacturing plant.

The aircraft with serial production number SP-25 was first upgraded by HAL to Tejas Mk1A level, which was at Mk1A level. Over the course of the next 30 months, the SP-25 will go through certification tests while serving as a test platform for the complete Mk1A version production line.

Following test results, Tejas Mk1A deliveries will start in March 2024. In 2029, all 83 aircraft that the Indian Air Force has ordered are expected to be delivered.

The most advanced Tejas Mk1 model, which achieved full operational capability [FOC] in 2020, is Tejas Mk1A. The Mk1A is outfitted with an external muting device, a self-defense system, a radar receiver warning, an Israeli Elta EL/M-2052 AESA radar, or an Indian Uttam AESA radar. The Mk1A will weigh less than the Mk1 overall. The Astra 1 and Astra 2 Resight Air-Air Missiles [AAM] developed in India will be employed in the Mk1A, which is one of the most significant upgrades made in comparison to the Mk1. Derby Oversight Air-Air Missiles can currently only be fired by Mk1 FOCs.

The export potential of Tejas

India makes significant efforts to export Tejas aircraft. Egypt is anticipated to be India’s biggest export client. Indian sources claim that India has proposed to Egypt the establishment of a factory in Egypt for the mass manufacture of Tejas Mk1A aircraft, as well as Dhruv and LCH helicopters.

The Egyptian government is expected to soon visit HAL’s facilities in accordance with this offer. At the Dubai Airshow in 2021, the Egyptian government made intentions to buy 70 Tejas Mk1A aircraft public.

In the Malaysian LIFT/LCA tender, the Tejas is also in opposition to the HURJET [Turkey], which was designed by TAI. India, which is giving Malaysia Tejas Mk1A aircraft, only gives Malaysia “depot-level support.” Malaysia, however, demands that at least 30% of the materials used to build the 18 light attack aircraft come from Malaysia.