Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:23pm on 26 Sep 2025,Friday Defence
The Ministry of Defence signed a landmark ₹62,370 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Thursday for 97 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets, marking India's largest indigenous defense contract. The deal encompasses 68 single-seat fighters and 29 twin-seat trainers along with associated equipment for the Indian Air Force. The upgraded Tejas Mk1A features UTTAM AESA radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite and improved flight capabilities. The project will boost defense self-reliance, create over 11,000 jobs, and involve 105 Indian companies. The Cabinet Committee on Security approved the additional acquisition on August 19, 2025. This strengthens indigenization efforts as the IAF transitions from aging MiG-21 aircraft to modern indigenous fighters.
