Cabinet Approves Procurement of 97 LCA Mark 1A Fighter Jets for IAF

Speedy Summary

• The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS),chaired by Prime Minister Narendra modi,approved the procurement of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF) on August 19,2025.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will manufacture these indigenous aircraft as part of India’s Make in India initiative.
• This is the second order for LCA Mk 1A jets; a prior order was placed in february 2021 for 83 aircraft worth ₹48,000 crore.
• The new fleet is intended to replace the IAF’s ageing MiG-21 aircraft, set to retire in September this year.
• Officials expect this programme to boost indigenisation and generate substantial opportunities for small and medium enterprises in the defense sector.
• Concerns have been raised regarding HAL’s ability to meet delivery timelines given prior delays involving earlier orders of the jet.
• HAL recently received U.S.-manufactured GE engines under a ₹5,375-crore contract signed with GE Aerospace in August 2021 to power tejas Mk 1A aircraft.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The CCS approval for procuring additional Tejas Mk 1A fighter jets underscores India’s push toward greater indigenisation within its defence framework under initiatives like Make in India. Replacing ageing fleets such as MiG-21 adds operational value while demonstrating confidence in domestic manufacturing capabilities via HAL’s involvement.

However, questions over HAL’s delivery timelines highlight challenges that could potentially slow progress despite high-level investments into production partnerships and international cooperation (e.g., GE engine contracts). Issues like timely execution must be addressed proactively since delays can impact the operational readiness of India’s air force during potential strategic needs.

The phase-out of older MiG-series fighters signals modernization but remains closely tied with evolving metrics around self-reliance and industrial efficiency pivotal for future orders beyond current commitments.

Read more: the Hindu