New Delhi: India is set to strengthen its air combat fleet with a landmark order for 97 Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security. The deal, estimated at over ₹62,000 crore, marks one of the largest indigenous defence procurements in the country’s history.

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which manufactures the Tejas aircraft, confirmed the approval and is preparing to sign the formal contract with the Ministry of Defence. This follows an earlier order of 83 Tejas jets placed in February 2021, though deliveries under that contract are yet to begin.

HAL is expected to hand over the first two improved Tejas Mk-1A jets to the Indian Air Force by October 2025, pending the completion of final weapon integration trials. To meet the ambitious delivery schedule, HAL is expanding its production capacity, with a new assembly line in Nashik set to roll out its first Tejas jet in mid-October.

The Tejas Mk-1A comes equipped with advanced avionics, improved radar, and the Astra beyond-visual-range missile system, enhancing its combat readiness. The new order will significantly boost the IAF’s squadron strength, as several ageing MiG-21 aircraft are phased out.

Alongside the fighter jet order, the government has also approved the acquisition of six airborne early warning and control aircraft, bringing the total package value to nearly ₹85,500 crore.

The deal underlines India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, while sending a clear message of its intent to modernize the armed forces amid regional security challenges.