The Tejas Mk2 program, crucial for modernizing the Indian Air Force, has faced significant delays as HAL’s Chairman announced revised timelines, pushing the first prototype rollout to late April or May 2026, with the maiden flight likely in late 2026 or early 2027. Factors behind these setbacks include heightened indigenization requirements, funding delays, supply chain challenges, and complex design changes. Despite the frustration these delays cause, they reflect a commitment to ensuring the aircraft meets stringent performance and reliability standards, underscoring India’s dedication to advancing its indigenous aerospace capabilities under the Make in India initiative.