Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to unveil the first Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) new Nashik production line on October 17, marking a significant leap in India’s indigenous defense capabilities. The Tejas Mk1A is an advanced multi-role fighter jet, designed to replace the ageing MiG-21s in the Indian Air Force (IAF), featuring over 64% indigenous content and equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as the UTTAM AESA Radar and various advanced missiles including the Astra and ASRAAM. Despite the excitement surrounding its maiden flight, the IAF faces delays in the delivery of these jets, primarily due to supply chain issues with General Electric’s F404 engines from the United States, which has hampered HAL’s production timeline. Nonetheless, a steady supply of engines is anticipated, with HAL under contract to deliver 83 Mk1A fighters by 2029 and an additional 97 jets planned for delivery between 2027 and 2034. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign technology, enhancing national security amid regional tensions.