The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided not to pursue additional orders for the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet beyond the recently contracted 97 units, focusing instead on the operationalization of its current fleet and the development of the more advanced Tejas Mk2, which is projected to become the backbone of the IAF’s medium-weight fighter fleet by the 2030s. Senior IAF officials indicated that while there are no plans for further Mk1A orders due to delays in deliveries and supply chain challenges, they remain committed to evaluating the performance of the current fleet before making future decisions. The Tejas Mk2 program, which is expected to see production ramp up significantly, potentially through private sector involvement to meet a demand for 220-250 aircraft, aims to address the immediate needs of the IAF as older aircraft phases out. The push for private sector production arises from HAL’s current limitations, raising concerns about timely deliveries necessary for maintaining air combat readiness against evolving regional threats. This strategic pivot underscores the urgency for India to enhance its indigenous defense capabilities while fostering a competitive defense industrial base.