HAL assures Tejas Mk1A deliveries after IAF chief’s criticism

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has cited technical issues as the primary reason for delays in delivering the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, following strong criticism from Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh. The state-owned aerospace company assured that the aircraft will be delivered soon, addressing concerns about production setbacks.

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The delays became a focal point after a video from the Aero India show in Bengaluru surfaced, showing the Air Force chief expressing his lack of confidence in HAL’s delivery timelines. The IAF has been awaiting 83 Tejas Mk1A jets, ordered in 2021, which are crucial for modernizing the fleet and enhancing combat capabilities.

HAL has now committed to expediting the process, with one aircraft from its Nasik facility and two from its Bengaluru facility expected to be delivered by the end of this year. The company has also outlined a roadmap for completing the full order within the next three and a half years.

The defence manufacturer emphasized that the delays were not due to negligence but rather technical challenges that have since been resolved. HAL remains engaged in continuous discussions with the Air Force to ensure the timely execution of the contract, reaffirming its focus on meeting production targets.