First LCA Mk-1A From Nashik Nears Maiden Flight

First LCA Mk-1A From Nashik Nears Maiden Flight

Why in the News?

The first LCA Mk-1A fighter jet built at HAL’s new Nashik production line is expected to fly in mid-July 2025, while the Indian Air Force awaits its first delivery after a 16-month delay in the programme.

First LCA Mk-1A From Nashik Nears Maiden Flight

Production Progress and Delays:

  • HAL’s new Nashik facility will conduct its first LCA Mk-1A flight in July 2025, supplementing its Bengaluru unit.
  • HAL aims to produce 24 jets annually (16 in Bengaluru, 8 in Nashik from 2026).
  • Initial delays were due to pending certifications and late deliveries of GE’s F404-IN20 engines.
  • Only 6 Mk-1As have been produced in Bengaluru so far, with the first delivery to IAF expected by July-August 2025.

IAF Concerns and Capability Gaps

  • IAF ordered 83 LCA Mk-1As for ₹48,000 crore in 2021; 97 more to be ordered for ₹67,000 crore.
  • The IAF currently operates 30 squadrons vs. the required 42, raising concerns over combat readiness.
  • Air Chief Marshal AP Singh flagged persistent delays and questioned HAL’s reliability.
  • He stressed the urgency of timely defence production, noting no major project has met its deadline.

Strategic Vision and Future Outlook

  • The Mk-1A is a 4.5-gen fighter with digital radar warning receivers, BVR missiles, and jammer pods.
  • India is also progressing on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) — its 5th-gen stealth fighter.
  • A new public-private model has been approved to boost self-reliance in aerospace, including firms like Tata, L&T, and Adani.
  • IAF leaders highlighted how precision weapons like Scalp and BrahMos are reshaping modern warfare by reducing the relevance of geography.

About LCA Tejas Mark 1A :

● LCA Tejas is a single-engine, multirole light fighter developed by ADA and HAL for the IAF and Indian Navy.

● Tejas Mark 1A is an upgraded variant of the original Mark 1.

● Features advanced AESA radar, digital radar warning receiver, and self-protection jammer.

● Offers enhanced avionics, electronic warfare systems, and improved maintainability.

● Can carry a wider array of weapons, including BVR missiles and precision-guided munitions.

● Has a maximum payload capacity of 3,500 kg.

● Designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat roles.

● The IAF has ordered 83 Mk-1A fighters to strengthen its fleet.