Indian Govt Clears 62,000-CR Rupees deal for 97 LCA Mark 1A to replace retiring MIG-21 Fleet
Indigenous Tejas jets to strengthen IAF combat power as MiG-21s retire after six decades of service…..
New Delhi: In a historic move to modernize its air power, the Indian government has cleared a massive deal worth ₹62,000 crore for the procurement of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mark 1A fighter jets. This step is aimed at replacing the aging fleet of MiG-21 aircraft, which have been in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for over six decades.
The approval, considered one of the largest indigenous defense deals in recent years, marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat). The new Tejas jets will be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), showcasing India’s growing capability in advanced aerospace technology.
The MiG-21 jets, once known as the backbone of the Indian Air Force, are now outdated and considered unsafe by many defense experts due to their aging technology and rising accident rates. With the induction of 97 LCA Tejas Mark 1A, the IAF will not only retire the MiG-21 fleet but also strengthen its frontline combat capability.
This deal is expected to bring several benefits:
Boost to indigenous manufacturing: The order will create thousands of jobs and promote Make in India.
Technological leap: The Tejas Mark 1A comes with advanced avionics, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, and electronic warfare capabilities.
Enhanced combat readiness: With superior maneuverability and multi-role features, the new jets will significantly improve India’s operational strength.
Tejas Mark 1A Features and Capabilities
The LCA Tejas Mark 1A is a 4.5-generation fighter jet designed for air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance missions. Key features include:
AESA radar for superior detection and tracking.
Mid-air refueling capability for extended range.
Modern electronic warfare system for survivability in hostile environments.
Ability to carry advanced BVR and precision-guided missiles.
By opting for indigenous fighter jets, India is reducing dependence on foreign suppliers such as Russia, France, and the U.S. The move also comes at a time when geopolitical tensions are high, particularly along the borders with China and Pakistan. The induction of Tejas will give India a stronger edge in maintaining air superiority in the region.
Comments are closed.