The Indian Air Force (IAF) is still operating with only 29 fighter squadrons against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons, leaving a major shortfall of about 13 squadrons amid security challenges from China and Pakistan. To overcome this shortcoming, IAF is giving priority to the induction of indigenous **Tejas Mk1A** light combat aircraft.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and IAF are going to hold an important review meeting in the last week of April 2026. The main topic of discussion will be compliance with Air Staff Quality Requirements (ASQR), technical inspection and expediting the delivery of Tejas Mk1A.
The IAF has ordered 180 Tejas Mk1A aircraft in two phases: 83 aircraft under a contract due in 2021 and 97 aircraft approved in September 2025. It is expected that these jets will eventually form multiple squadrons and replace older aircraft like the MiG-21. Currently, two squadrons are using older variants of Tejas Mk1.
The main reason for the delay in this program is the slow supply of **GE F404-IN20 engines** from General Electric. HAL has penalized GE under the contract for missing deadlines, although engine deliveries are gradually improving. HAL says five Mk1A aircraft are completely ready and have all the key capabilities specified under the contract, while the remaining aircraft are awaiting engines.
The IAF has insisted on rigorous testing and strict operational standards before inducting these jets, which has delayed the deadline. It is expected that once engine supply is stabilized, production will ramp up to 16–24 aircraft per year.
The timely induction of Tejas Mk1A is considered vital to arrest the declining squadron strength of the IAF and strengthen its air defense capabilities. The outcome of the review in April will be crucial in determining when the first series-production consignment of Mk1A jets can be formally delivered and when they can begin strengthening operational readiness. After this meeting, more information about the exact schedule of deliveries is expected.
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