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.
Industry says manufacturers have 2-4 weeks of buffer stocks, but prolonged disruption could push up shortage risks, especially of consumables like IV and syringes.
French newspaper La Tribune earlier last week indicated that UAE withdrew from deal to fund EUR 3.5 billion. India is looking to order 114 new Rafales, which could include the F5.
China patiently invested capital, skill and technology in coal gasification. Unlike it, we won’t move from words to action. As crude prices decline, we lose interest.
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