There were no plans to have Mk1A version. However, compromise was reached between HAL & IAF in 2015 since original plan for getting Mk2 would've been time-consuming affair.
IAF facing severe shortage in fighter strength and state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has failed to deliver. Of IAF's initial order of 40 Tejas, HAL has delivered only 36.
HAL has an order of 18 twin seaters from IAF and is planning to deliver eight twin seaters in FY 2023-24. Further, 10 twin seaters would be delivered progressively by 2026-27.
HAL has an order of 18 twin seaters from IAF and is planning to deliver eight twin seaters in FY 2023-24. Further, 10 twin seaters would be delivered progressively by 2026-27.
The IAF will sign contracts to procure indigenous jets, helicopters, and new-generation weapon systems over the next year and a half, Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari said Tuesday.
While complimenting HAL, CAS indicated that based on these assurances, LCA Mk-1A could be inducted into a newly raised squadron in one of the IAF's operational bases early next year.
IAF inducted new helicopter Monday, but it'll get anti-tank guided missile only by mid-2023, while air-to-air missiles haven't yet been ordered, it is learnt.
Equipped with a 20 m gun, 70 mm rockets and air-to-ground missiles, the HAL-manufactured LCH will complement the heavier 22 Apache attack choppers purchased from the US.
Most of India’s defence programmes take about two decades before being fielded. For whatever reason this has become the norm, it is no longer sustainable.
The industry forecasts exports are set to grow 16% in 2025-26, boosted by surplus domestic production and a drive to push into 26 underserved global markets with strong potential.
Taylor ‘Fema’ Hiester, commander of USAF F-16 Viper Demo Team, hit out at air show organisers for continuing with the show after Wing Commander Namansh Syal lost his life in the incident.
It is a brilliant, reasonably priced, and mostly homemade aircraft with a stellar safety record; only two crashes in 24 years since its first flight. But its crash is a moment of introspection.
How much more ridiculous can this get when you place another huge order without having received a single item from the previous order that you were promised delivery of 2 years ago.
I doesn’t happen only in India but it sure does hurt more when i happens in India.
How much more ridiculous can this get when you place another huge order without having received a single item from the previous order that you were promised delivery of 2 years ago.
I doesn’t happen only in India but it sure does hurt more when i happens in India.