India’s indigenous Tejas Mk1A fighter jet program has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of weapons integration trials, validating its operational readiness for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The trials included successful live firings of the Astra beyond-visual-range missile and the ASRAAM short-range missile, enhancing the aircraft’s versatility in various combat scenarios. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to deliver the first two jets to the IAF this month, bolstered by a strong production commitment. This advancement not only strengthens the IAF’s capabilities amid regional threats but also underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The phased induction of the Tejas Mk1A is expected to phase out older aircraft and address the IAF’s squadron shortfall effectively.