Overview The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas Mk-1 is an Indian single-engine, delta-wing, light multirole fighter designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Aircraft Research and Design Centre (ARDC) of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Conceived as part of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, it was developed to replace the aging MiG-21 fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and to serve as a cornerstone for India's self-reliance in aerospace technology. Development History Origin of the LCA Program The LCA program was formally launched in 1983. The primary goal was to design a multi-role fighter that was small, lightweight, and incorporated state-of-the-art technologies. The project was managed by the ADA, which acted as the lead agency, while HAL served as the principal partner for manufacturing and assembly. Testing and Certification The first technology demonstrator (TD-1) made its maiden flight on January 4, 2001. Over the following two decades, the aircraft underwent an extensive flight testing program involving multiple prototypes and limited series production aircraft. The Mk-1 variant received Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) in December 2013 and attained Final Operational Clearance (FOC) in February 2019, marking its readiness for full combat duties. Design and Engineering Airframe and Materials - The Tejas features a tailless, compound delta-wing configuration designed for high maneuverability and stability. A significant portion of the airframe (approximately 45% by weight and 90% by surface area) is constructed from advanced carbon-fiber composites. This usage of composites reduces the overall weight of the aircraft, minimizes the number of joints, and lowers the radar cross-section. Flight Control System - The aircraft is equipped with a quadruplex digital fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control system. This system is essential for maintaining control over the inherently unstable aerodynamic design of the aircraft, ensuring high agility across the entire flight envelope while providing "carefree" handling for the pilot. Propulsion - The Mk-1 is powered by the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 afterburning turbofan engine. This engine provides the necessary thrust-to-weight ratio to achieve supersonic speeds and perform high-G maneuvers. Variants Single seater fighter for Air Force and Navy Twin Seater trainer aircraft for Air Force and Navy Avionics and Armament Sensors and Radar - The primary sensor of the Tejas Mk-1 is the Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode fire control radar, which supports air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-sea operations. The cockpit is a fully glass cockpit featuring three liquid crystal multi-function displays (MFDs) and a Helmet Mounted Display and Sight (HMDS). Weapons Systems - LCA-Tejas is having 9 hard points and is capable to fire variety of weapons like Long Range BVR & WVR missiles, Bombs etc. with required precision and accuracy. Induction into Service The Tejas Mk-1 was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in July 2016. The first unit to operate the aircraft was No. 45 Squadron (the "Flying Daggers"), based initially at Bengaluru and later moved to Sulur Air Force Station. In 2020, a second squadron, No. 18 Squadron (the "Flying Bullets"), was operationalized. The aircraft has participated in various international air shows and domestic military exercises, demonstrating its reliability and combat potential. It is viewed as a critical asset for point defense and air superiority missions within the South Asian theater. For more information, click here.