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New Delhi has cleared a landmark defence deal worth Rs 62,000 crore for the acquisition of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A fighter jets, giving a major push to the country’s Make in India programme in the aerospace sector. Defence sources confirmed that the final approval came during a high-level meeting on Tuesday, paving the way for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to begin large-scale production of the advanced fighters.

This is the second major order for the aircraft, following an earlier purchase of 83 LCA Mark 1As valued at around Rs 48,000 crore. Together, the two orders will strengthen the Indian Air Force’s fleet while ensuring a smooth transition away from the ageing MiG-21s, which are being phased out in the coming weeks. Defence officials emphasized that the project would not only modernize the force but also create significant business opportunities for small and medium enterprises involved in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The LCA Mark 1A comes equipped with enhanced avionics, upgraded radar systems, and higher indigenous content. Officials said the new batch will contain more than 65 percent locally produced components, making it a cornerstone of India’s push for self-reliance in defence production. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has personally backed the programme, which also supports the long-term revival of HAL as the central hub for indigenous fighter aircraft, helicopters, and engine production.

The programme has already drawn international attention. Former Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari first announced the plan to acquire nearly 100 additional LCA Mark 1As during an interaction in Spain, highlighting India’s intent to boost domestic fighter production. Modi himself made history when he undertook a sortie in the trainer variant of the aircraft, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister flew in a combat jet.

HAL is expected to play an even larger role in the coming years, with future contracts likely to include over 200 LCA Mark 2s and a similar number of next-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. The latest approval, however, marks a decisive step forward, reinforcing the LCA programme as the flagship of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and establishing it as a vital pillar of the nation’s defence preparedness.