The anticipated first flight of India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 is reportedly delayed to 2027, raising concerns about its relevance amidst evolving air threats, particularly from adversaries like China. This delay could push the aircraft’s production to 2031-32 and full induction to 2037-38, jeopardizing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational strength, currently at only 30 squadrons against a target of 42. The LCA Mk2, essential for replacing ageing fighters, must be timely to ensure India’s combat readiness and sustain its indigenous aerospace development efforts, highlighting the critical balance between technological advancement and execution timelines in defense capabilities.