Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has proposed limited pre-certification production of the Tejas Mk2 to address the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) urgent need for new fighters, aiming for a production rate of 24 jets per year starting in 2034. This initiative involves repurposing three manufacturing lines from the Tejas Mk1A program, enabling rapid transition and minimizing retooling costs. The Tejas Mk2, a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter featuring advanced technologies, is critical for the IAF as it currently faces a deficit of 11 squadrons. HAL’s strategy not only aims to fulfill the IAF’s baseline requirement of 120 jets but also positions India as a rising contender in the global aerospace market with potential for future exports.