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.
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.
Country's used lithium-ion battery problem is also set to grow sharply in next decade. India 3rd largest e-waste producer with 7% global share but currently recycles only about 10% of it.
Shield AI will provide V-BAT vertical takeoff & landing drones along with licences for software, which will be integrated into aircraft and made available to select Indian partners.
No nation other than China can negotiate one-on-one with Trump on an equal footing. That’s why the middle powers who so far formed the core of multilateral bodies now feel orphaned.
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.