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India clears the acquisition of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force
ASTRA, an indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile, being test fired by Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) LSP-7. (Representational image via PTI)
In a major boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in defence, the central government has cleared a Rs 62,000 crore deal to buy 97 LCA Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The final approval was given during a high-level meeting on Tuesday, paving the way for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to begin production.
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This is the second major order for the indigenous fighter jet. Earlier, the government had placed an order for 83 LCA Mark 1A jets, worth around Rs 48,000 crore. With this new order, the total number of LCA Mark 1A jets ordered by the IAF now stands at 180.
According to defence sources, the new fleet will replace the ageing MiG-21 fighter jets, which are expected to be phased out in the coming weeks. The LCA Tejas programme has received strong backing from the Defence Ministry and the Air Headquarters. It is expected to give a significant push to indigenisation and support small and medium enterprises involved in the defence sector across India, ANI reported.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been a strong supporter of HAL and India’s domestic defence manufacturing sector. Under his leadership, HAL has secured multiple orders for indigenous aircraft, helicopters, and engines. Notably, the Prime Minister also flew in the trainer variant of the Tejas, becoming the first Indian PM to take a sortie in a combat aircraft.
The LCA Mark 1A features upgraded avionics and radar systems compared to earlier versions. It also has a higher indigenous content, with over 65% of its components made in India.
The plan to buy 97 additional jets was first announced by former Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari during a visit to Spain.
The LCA programme is seen as a key part of India’s goal to become self-reliant in defence and aerospace manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.
HAL is also expected to receive future orders for over 200 LCA Mark 2 jets and several next-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
(With inputs from ANI)
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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
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