India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk1A has successfully completed its final weapons integration trials, including live-firing of the Astra beyond-visual-range missile and ASRAAM close-combat missile, marking a pivotal milestone for imminent induction into the Indian Air Force. The trials, conducted in late September 2025 at HAL’s Nashik facility, validated the aircraft’s combat readiness and seamless integration with a modern weapons suite, enhancing its multi-role capabilities. Developed under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Tejas Mk1A features critical upgrades such as the indigenous Uttam AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, and increased fuel capacity, positioning it as a 4.5-generation fighter. With 180 aircraft on order to replace the aging MiG-21 fleet, HAL is set to begin deliveries this month, despite minor delays in engine supply, as the IAF prepares for user trials ahead of frontline deployment by early 2026, strengthening India’s aerial defense autonomy and operational preparedness.