HAL Tejas Mark-1A Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft
WEAPON SYSTEM OVERVIEW
The Tejas Mark-1A is an advanced 4.5-generation multi-role lightweight fighter aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru and Nashik. Built with a tailless compound delta wing crafted from 45% advanced carbon-fiber composites by weight, the Tejas features a quadruple-redundant digital fly-by-wire flight control system (DFCS), Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and an advanced electronic warfare suite.
STRATEGIC DETERRENCE & COMBAT ROLE
With a total commitment of 180 aircraft (83 initial + 97 follow-on orders), the Tejas Mk1A is the primary vehicle for revitalizing the Indian Air Force's fighter squadron strength. Its indigenous Uttam AESA radar and Astra Mk-1/Mk-2 Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile integration free India from foreign weapon vetoes while catalyzing an ecosystem of over 500 domestic tier-1 and tier-2 aerospace suppliers.
OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENT & COMMAND FOOTPRINT
Operational with 45 Squadron 'Flying Daggers' (Sulur) and 51 Squadron; new squadrons standing up at Nal (Bikaner) and Utarlai.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS MATRIX
| Max Speed | Mach 1.8 (2,205 km/h) |
| Combat Range | 1,850 km (Ferry Range: 3,200 km with drop tanks) |
| Service Ceiling | 52,000 ft (16,000 m) |
| Radar | Uttam Indigenous AESA Radar / EL/M-2052 AESA |
| Payload Capacity | 5,300 kg across 9 hardpoints |
| Armament | Astra Mk-1/2 BVR, ASRAAM, BrahMos-NG (planned), SDB, Laser-Guided Bombs |
| Engine | General Electric F404-GE-IN20 Afterburning Turbofan (84 kN thrust) |
| Empty Weight | 6,560 kg |
OPERATIONAL VARIANTS
Tejas Mk-1 (IOC/FOC)
Initial operational capability fighter in active service with IAF 45 and 18 Squadrons.
Tejas Mk-1A
Advanced variant with AESA radar, EW jammer pod, smart MFDs, and maintenance improvements.
Tejas Mk-2 (MWF)
Medium Weight Fighter featuring GE F414 engine, canards, and 6.5-tonne payload.