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Tejas jets have begun ASRAAM trials in the eastern sector, a key step before Astra missile tests. Final clearance now rests with the Safety Review Board for firing approval
The availability of Tejas Mk-1A will reduce the need for Rafale, F-35, or Sukhoi jets. (PTI/File)
India’s indigenous fighter aircraft, Tejas (LCA Mk-1A), has reached a significant milestone. The Indian armed forces will soon receive two Tejas aircraft, and in preparation, their capabilities were tested on Monday.
Both Tejas aircraft have commenced trials involving the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) in the eastern sector. These trials are crucial because they will pave the way for equipping the aircraft with the Astra missile, followed by a firing test. The only remaining step is approval from the Safety Review Board for the Astra missile firing.
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Previously, in March, the Astra missile test on Tejas had failed. However, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) have since upgraded its software, raising expectations for success.
HAL Chairman DK Sunil stated that these weapon tests are the most significant assessment of the entire aircraft system. He explained, “When the missile is fired and hits the target, it confirms the performance of the entire aircraft system. This test proves that the weapons installed on the aircraft’s wing, its alignment, signalling, and aerodynamic effects are all functioning correctly. This is the pinnacle of testing for us.”
97 Tejas For Rs 66,000 Crore
In August, the Defence Ministry approved the purchase of 97 additional Tejas Mk-1A aircraft from HAL, amounting to approximately Rs 66,000 crore. HAL announced that once the weapon tests are completed, the first aircraft would be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) starting from October.
According to military experts, the availability of these indigenous fighter aircraft will reduce the need for Rafale, F-35, or Sukhoi jets.
HAL clarified that supply chain issues concerning engines in the initial order of 83 aircraft were the primary obstacle. However, American company GE Aerospace has since resolved these issues. Three engines have already been received, with seven more expected by December and 20 next year. Consequently, 10 aircraft have been prepared (two of which feature new engines), and the assembly of 24 aircraft is ongoing.
Addressing The Air Force’s Concerns
The Indian Air Force had expressed concerns that the slow progress of the LCA Mk-1A programme could impact its combat capability. Initially, the first aircraft was scheduled for delivery in March 2024. However, HAL now asserts that with the delivery of the first aircraft in October, subsequent production will proceed swiftly.
Trainer jets included in the new contract will also receive upgrades. The 10 trainers from the 2021 deal are of LCA Mk-1 standard, whereas the new 29 trainers will be of LCA Mk-1A standard, equipped with state-of-the-art AESA radar and modern electronic warfare suite.
Overall, the ASRAAM and Astra missile trials represent the next significant step for the LCA Mk-1A’s success. If these tests are successful, the delivery of indigenous jets to the Air Force will commence in October, advancing India’s defence self-reliance programme to a new level.
September 16, 2025, 16:16 IST
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