India’s indigenous Tejas Mk1A fighter jet is set to make its inaugural flight on October 19, 2025, at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facility in Nashik, a significant milestone in bolstering the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will officiate the event that also marks the inauguration of new production lines for the Tejas Mk1A and HTT-40 aircraft, underscoring the government’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The Tejas Mk1A, a 4.5-generation multi-role combat aircraft, enhances India’s strike capabilities with advanced radar, avionics, and the ability to carry BrahMos missiles, reflecting a leap forward in domestic defense technology. However, production has faced delays primarily due to supply chain issues with critical F404-IN20 engines from General Electric, impacting the timeline for the delivery of all 83 aircraft ordered by the IAF. Nonetheless, negotiations for an additional 97 units are underway, with the need for new squadrons underscored by the IAF’s current shortfall against its authorized strength, making the Tejas Mk1A’s induction essential for enhancing air superiority and achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing.