History of HAL Tejas in Timeline

The HAL Tejas is a single-engine, 4.5 generation, multirole combat aircraft designed in India by the Aeronautical Development Agency and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Featuring a delta wing configuration, it is used by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy. The Tejas is notable for being the smallest and lightest supersonic fighter jet of its generation. Its first flight was in 2001, and it entered service with the IAF in 2015, marking a significant advancement in India's domestic defense capabilities.

1963: MiG-21 Enters Service

In 1963, the MiG-21 became the mainstay of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF operated 874 of these aircraft in the past.

1981: Long Term Re-Equipment Plan

In 1981, the Ministry of Defence's Long Term Re-Equipment Plan noted that most of the IAF's fighter aircraft, like the MiG-21, were nearing the end of their service lives by the early 1990s.

1983: Establishment of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Programme

In 1983, the Government of India established the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, aiming to develop a new light combat aircraft to replace the ageing fleet of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

1984: Establishment of Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)

In 1984, the government established the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO to manage the LCA programme. HAL was chosen as the principal contractor.

October 1986: Project Definition Phase Commenced

In October 1986, the project definition phase for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) commenced, with Dassault-Breguet acting as a consultant for design and system integration. Kota Harinarayana was appointed as the director and chief designer of the LCA programme.

1990: Design of LCA Finalized

In 1990, the design of the LCA was finalized as a small tailless compound delta wing design with relaxed static stability and a digital fly by wire flight control system.

1992: Establishment of National Control Law team (CLAW)

In 1992, a dedicated National Control Law team (CLAW) was set up by the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) to develop an indigenous fly by wire flight control system for the HAL Tejas.

1995: Projected Aircraft Shortfall

By 1995, the Indian Air Force (IAF) was projected to be 40 percent short of the aircraft needed to meet its force structure requirements.

1997: MMR Development Commences

In 1997, DRDO's LRDE laboratory and HAL were jointly assigned the Multi-Mode Radar (MMR) development program for the HAL Tejas, with work commencing. The Centre for Airborne Systems was responsible for the MMR's test programme.

1998: US Embargo Delays Program

In 1998, a United States-led embargo in response to India's second nuclear tests delayed the HAL Tejas program by approximately 18 months.

January 2001: First Technology Demonstrator Flight

On January 4, 2001, the first technology demonstrator (TD-1) of the HAL Tejas successfully achieved flight.

2001: First Flight

In 2001, the HAL Tejas, an Indian multirole combat aircraft, successfully completed its first flight.

2003: Official Naming of Tejas

In 2003, the aircraft was officially named 'Tejas', meaning 'radiance' or 'brilliance' in Sanskrit, continuing the Indian tradition of Sanskrit names for combat aircraft.

2003: TD-2 Testing and Maiden Flight of PV-1

In 2003, the second technology demonstrator (TD-2) began testing. Also in 2003, the first production variant (PV-1) made its maiden flight.

2005: Sub-optimal Performance of MMR

By 2005, only two radar modes of the indigenous Multi-Mode Radar (MMR) being developed for the HAL Tejas were successfully tested. The performance of other tested modes was rated as sub-optimal due to compatibility issues between the radar and LRDE's signal processor module.

December 2006: IAF Announces LCA Induction Team

In December 2006, the Indian Air Force (IAF) announced that it would form an "LCA Induction Team" to manage the HAL Tejas aircraft's service introduction.

April 2007: Maiden Flight of LSP-1

On April 25, 2007, the first Limited Series Production aircraft (LSP-1) of the HAL Tejas performed its maiden flight.

November 2009: First Flight of Trainer Variant

In November 2009, specifically on the 26th, the first trainer variant (PV-5) of the HAL Tejas made its first flight.

July 2010: Roll out of Naval LCA prototype NP-1

In July 2010, the first naval prototype NP-1 of the Naval LCA was rolled out. This prototype, a two-seat variant, was based on the Tejas Mark 1 design and intended for carrier suitability certification and weapons integration.

December 2010: Successful Trial of CMDS with R-73 Missile

On December 2, 2010, LSP-4 completed the successful trial of the BDL developed Counter Measure Dispensing System (CMDS) with the R-73 missile. It worked well with the Open Architecture Mission Computer and Digital Stores Management System.

January 2011: Initial Operational Clearance-I (IOC-I) Awarded

In January 2011, the HAL Tejas was awarded initial operational clearance-I (IOC-I).

April 2012: First Flight of Naval Prototype

On April 27, 2012, the first naval prototype of the HAL Tejas, designated NP-1, made its first flight. It was a twin-seater aircraft.

2012: Development of Uttam AESA Radar Started

In 2012, the DRDO started development of the Uttam AESA Radar.

2012: Tejas Fleet Grounded for Modification of Ejection System

In the second half of 2012, the HAL Tejas fleet was grounded for over three months and the ejection system had to be modified to resume flight tests by the end of 2012.

December 2013: Interim IOC-II Issued

In December 2013, an interim IOC-II was issued to the HAL Tejas to ease the process of FOC. This expanded the g-limit, angle of attack, and allowed the aircraft to carry precision-guided munitions and close combat missiles.

2013: Inflight Engine Relight Test

In 2013, the HAL Tejas (LSP-7) conducted an inflight engine relight test at high altitude to assess the engine response on flameout, which is a critical parameter for operational clearance of a single engine combat aircraft.

October 2014: First Flight of LCA-SP1

On October 1, 2014, the LCA-SP1 aircraft successfully completed its first flight.

December 2014: FOC Campaign Begins

In December 2014, the Full Operational Clearance (FOC) campaign for the HAL Tejas began. Two critical parameters set by the IAF for FOC clearance were expansion of the angle of attack and in-flight refueling capability.

December 2014: First Ski-Jump Assisted Take Off

In December 2014, the LCA Navy successfully executed its first ski-jump assisted take off from a Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF) at INS Hansa. The navy variant has a distinctive flight control law mode which allows hands-free take-off.

January 2015: Delivery of LCA-SP1 to the Indian Air Force

On January 17, 2015, the LCA-SP1 aircraft was delivered to the Indian Air Force, marking a significant step in its induction. However, it was not inducted into a squadron until sufficient numbers were delivered.

May 2015: CAG Notes Shortcomings

In May 2015, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) noted some shortcomings in the then-delivered HAL Tejas Mark 1 IOC standard aircraft, which would limit its ability to survive and operate in actual combat. Some of these shortcomings were addressed in the Mark 1 FOC configuration.

2015: Entry into service with IAF

In 2015, the HAL Tejas officially entered into service with the Indian Air Force (IAF).

July 2016: Operationalization of the First Tejas Squadron

In July 2016, No. 45 Squadron IAF (Flying Daggers), became the first Tejas-equipped squadron to be operationalized. It is based in Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore.

December 2016: Indian Navy opts out of N-LCA programme

In December 2016, the Indian Navy opted out of the Naval LCA program, citing delays and technical issues such as an inadequate thrust-to-weight ratio. They subsequently issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of 57 multi-role carrier-borne fighters.

2016: Indigenous Content of Mark 1 Aircraft

In 2016, the HAL Tejas Mark 1 aircraft had an indigenous content of 59.7% by value and 75.5% by the number of line replaceable units.

2016: First Squadron Becomes Operational

In 2016, the first squadron of HAL Tejas, No. 45 Squadron IAF (Flying Daggers), became operational. It is based at Sulur in Tamil Nadu.

February 2018: "Hot Refuelling" Carried Out

In February 2018, as part of the FOC campaign, the HAL Tejas carried out a "hot refueling" - refuelling with the engine running, which shortens the turnaround time by 30% and doubles the sortie rate.

September 2018: Mid-Air Refuelling Trials Completed

In September 2018, the HAL Tejas successfully completed its mid-air refuelling trials required for the aircraft to obtain its Full Operational Clearance (FOC).

October 2018: UAE shows interest in Tejas during state visit

In October 2018, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) showed initial interest in the Tejas, with discussions taking place during a state visit by UAE Minister of State and Defence, Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi Al Falacy.

2018: Sri Lanka shows interest in purchasing Tejas

In 2018, Sri Lanka expressed interest in acquiring the Tejas to replace its aging IAI Kfir and Chengdu J-7 aircraft, with plans for purchasing 8 to 12 aircraft through a government-to-government agreement.

January 2019: Permission to Start Production of FOC Standard Tejas

In January 2019, HAL received permission from CEMILAC to start production of the Full Operational Clearance (FOC) standard HAL Tejas.

February 2019: FOC Formally Awarded

On February 20, 2019, during the Aero India 2019 show, Full Operational Clearance (FOC) was formally awarded to the HAL Tejas. HAL handed over the FOC certificate to Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa.

December 2019: Naval LCA Prototype Completes Test Flights

As of December 2019, the Naval LCA program had completed 209 test flights, including 50 ski jump take-offs and 28 arrested landings, showing progress in the aircraft's development and testing.

January 2020: Carrier Trials of NP-2

In January 2020, the naval prototype NP-2 of the HAL Tejas made an arrested recovery and ski-jump assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya during actual carrier trials.

January 2020: Successful Arrested Landing and Ski-Jump Take-Off from INS Vikramaditya

In January 2020, the naval prototype NP-2 of the LCA successfully performed its first arrested landing and ski-jump assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, demonstrating its carrier compatibility.

March 2020: HAL proposed exporting Tejas and setting up logistic facilities

In March 2020, HAL proposed exporting the Tejas, initiating preliminary talks with several friendly countries. As part of this export strategy, HAL expressed its willingness to establish logistic facilities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

May 2020: Formation of Second Tejas Squadron

On May 27, 2020, the second HAL Tejas squadron – No.18 Flying Bullets was formed at Sulur Air Force Station with the first four serial production FOC aircraft.

July 2020: DRDO drops plan to develop LCA Mark 2 Navy

In July 2020, the DRDO announced the abandonment of plans to develop an LCA Mark 2 Navy variant. Instead, they began working on a new carrier-borne fighter to meet the Indian Navy's requirements outlined in a 2016 request, aiming to replace the existing MiG-29K/KUB fighters.

August 2020: IAF deployed Flying Daggers on the western front

On August 18, 2020, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed the No. 45 Squadron "Flying Daggers" on the western front along the Pakistani border (line of control). This deployment marked the first operational deployment of the Tejas aircraft.

December 2020: HAL offers Tejas LIFT to US Navy

In December 2020, HAL responded to a Request for Information (RFI) from the United States Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) by offering the "Lead In Fighter Trainer" variant of the HAL Tejas, known as the "HAL Tejas LIFT", to the United States Navy (USN) for its "Undergraduate Jet Training System" program to replace the T-45 Goshawk trainer aircraft.

April 2021: Tejas Mark 1 successfully test fired Python-5 and I-Derby ER missiles

On April 27, 2021, the Tejas Mark 1 successfully test fired the Python-5 high off-boresight (HOBS) close combat air-to-air missile and further validated the enhanced capability of the I-Derby ER (extended range) BVR missile. Both missiles achieved direct hits on their targets during the trial.

October 2021: Full Mission Simulator Phase-1 Commissioned

On October 23, 2021, a full mission simulator (FMS) phase-1 was commissioned at Sulur Air Force Station. Phase 1 of the FMS features training in aircraft handling and full envelope flying.

2021: Unveiling of Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) at Aero India 2021

During Aero India 2021, the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) was unveiled, marking a new direction for naval fighter development, leveraging experience from the N-LCA program.

2021: Delivery of JF 17 to Nigeria

In 2021, Nigeria received deliveries of JF 17 from Pakistan after withdrawing from negotiations to purchase Tejas in January 2025.

2021: LCA Program Update

In 2021, the Minister of Defence told the Indian Parliament that the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) is no longer considered a direct replacement for the MiG-21, but part of a general IAF fleet modernization program.

2021: Sri Lanka decides to overhaul Kfirs instead of buying new aircraft

In 2021, the Sri Lankan government opted to overhaul their existing Kfir aircraft, costing approximately $49 million in total for all five, as a more cost-effective alternative to purchasing new aircraft at around $40 million per unit.

May 2022: UAE places order for Rafale F4s, ending interest in Tejas

By May 2022, the Tejas failed to generate further interest from the UAE, which instead placed an order for 80 Rafale F4s from France.

May 2022: India and Philippines sign MOU considering Tejas purchase

In May 2022, India and the Philippines entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation, which included the potential acquisition of the Tejas and other Indian-made aircraft.

July 2022: Tejas dropped from consideration in Philippine MRF project

On 7 July 2022, the Tejas was excluded from further consideration in the multi-role fighter jet (MRF) project of the Philippine Air Force, with the F-16V Block 70/72 and JAS-39 Gripen C/D+ emerging as the primary contenders.

February 2023: UAE signs deal for Hongdu L-15 aircraft from China

In February 2023, the UAE finalized an agreement to purchase 12 Hongdu L-15 trainer and light combat aircraft from China, along with options for an additional 36 aircraft.

February 2023: Naval Prototype Completes Landing and Take-Off from INS Vikrant

In February 2023, the naval prototype of the LCA successfully completed its maiden landing and take-off from the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, marking a significant achievement for the program.

March 2023: IAF participated in Exercise Desert Flag VIII with Tejas aircraft

In March 2023, the Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in Exercise Desert Flag VIII, held in UAE from February 27 to March 17, with five Tejas and two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. This event marked the first time the Tejas participated in an international flying exercise outside of India.

April 2023: Flight Clearance Certificate for AMAGB Bearings

On April 15, 2023, HAL received a flight clearance certificate for the Aircraft Mounted Accessory Gear Box (AMAGB) bearings and power take-off shaft.

August 2023: Successful test firing of Astra Mk-1 missile from HAL Tejas aircraft

On August 23, 2023, the Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range air-to-air missile was successfully test fired from a HAL Tejas aircraft off the coast of Goa from an altitude of 20,000 ft (6.1 km). This was the first time India test fired an indigenously developed BVRAAM from a homegrown fighter aircraft.

December 2023: Nigeria expresses interest in acquiring Tejas

In December 2023, HAL reported Nigeria's interest in acquiring the Tejas, positioning it as a competitor to the JF-17.

January 2024: Tejas participated in the Republic Day parade

On January 26, 2024, four Tejas aircraft participated in the fly-past during the 75th Republic Day parade held at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.

February 2024: HAL offers Tejas Mark 1A as naval strike platform to PADC

In February 2024, HAL proposed the Tejas Mark 1A to the PADC as a naval strike platform, incorporating the BrahMos NG missile. HAL also committed to facilitating a local partnership for assembling the MK1A.

February 2024: Successful Sortie with Indigenous Digital Flight Control Computer

On February 19, 2024, the Tejas Mark-1A prototype LSP-7 successfully completed a sortie with an indigenously designed high-performance Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC), developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE). The new DFCC features advanced processing and software to meet stringent safety regulations.

March 2024: Argentina agreed to purchase Danish F-16s

In March 2024, Argentina agreed to the purchase of 24 Danish F-16s, concluding a period where the Tejas was considered but ultimately eliminated as an option.

March 2024: Successful Completion of High-Altitude Testing for OBOGS-ILSS

In March 2024, the high-altitude testing for the On-Board Oxygen Generating System centric Life Support System (OBOGS-ILSS) of Tejas was successfully completed by DRDO. Tested on LCA PV-3 aircraft, the system can be adapted for use in other aircraft like MiG-29K and Tejas Mk2.

March 2024: Successful Inaugural Flight of Tejas Mark 1A with Carbon-BMI Engine Bay Door

On March 28, 2024, the Tejas Mark 1A, equipped with the first set of Carbon-BMI Engine Bay Door assembly, successfully completed its inaugural flight from the HAL facility, showcasing advancements in composite materials.

April 2024: Delivery of First Batch of Secondary Flight Control for Tejas Mk 1A

On April 19, 2024, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) delivered the first batch of Secondary Flight Control systems for the Tejas Mk 1A. This batch includes indigenously designed Leading Edge Slats and Airbrake Control Modules, which feature state-of-the-art Servo-Valve based electro-hydraulic servo actuators and control modules.

July 2024: Talks on Tejas acquisition by Nigeria suspended

In July 2024, reports emerged that discussions regarding Nigeria's acquisition of the Tejas were put on hold.

2024: Uttam AESA Radar Undergoing Trials

As of 2024, the Uttam AESA Radar was undergoing trials.

January 2025: Nigeria withdraws from negotiations to purchase Tejas

In January 2025, Nigeria officially withdrew from negotiations to procure the Tejas, opting instead for the JF-17 from Pakistan which had deliveries in 2021.

March 2025: Successful test firing of Astra Mk-1 missile from Tejas Mk1 prototype

On March 12, 2025, the Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range air-to-air missile was successfully test fired from a Tejas Mk1 prototype over the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. The missile scored a direct hit on a flying target at a range of over 100 km. This test was significant for the subsequent induction of Tejas Mk 1A aircraft, with further trials expected for performance evaluation.

July 2025: Review of Tejas Programme Progress and Engine Deliveries

In July 2025, PK Mishra, principal secretary to the Prime Minister, visited HAL's LCA Tejas Assembly Hangar and Aerospace Division to review the program's progress. Six Tejas Mk 1A single-seat and two twin-seat trainer variants were observed on the assembly line. Additionally, it was confirmed that GE will deliver two F404-IN20 engines per month from July 2025 to March 2026. The available Category B engines are being rotated among new aircraft for test flights.

August 2025: Tejas Mk1 BVRAAM Testing Scheduled

As reported on 28 July 2025, the aircraft were moving towards its "next phase" and is ready to "roll out". The testing of Astra Mk1 BVRAAM is scheduled for early August 2025.

September 2025: Delivery of Second Centre Fuselage for Tejas Mk 1A

On 4 September 2025, the second center fuselage for the Tejas Mk 1A, manufactured by Hyderabad-based VEM Technologies, was delivered to HAL. Each fuselage requires 1,595 parts and is constructed using metallic and carbon fiber composite materials. VEM Technologies is scheduled to deliver a total of five fuselage units by the end of the year.

November 2025: IAF Inventory

As of November 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has approximately 30 Mark 1 aircraft and six trainers in its inventory across two squadrons.

March 2026: GE Engine Delivery Timeline for Tejas Mk 1A

In July 2025, it was confirmed that GE would deliver two F404-IN20 engines per month from July 2025 to March 2026 to facilitate the production of the Tejas Mk 1A aircraft.

March 2026: Delivery deadline delayed to March 2026

The delivery deadline for the Tejas was delayed to March 2026. Reportedly, several Air Force officials anticipate further delays of over six months due to multiple checks and pre-delivery procedures still pending.

2026: Potential delay in Tejas deliveries

As of September 25, 2026, reports indicated that deliveries of the HAL Tejas could be delayed until the first quarter of 2026. This delay is attributed to the Air Force's requirement for fully ready fighter aircraft with complete validations, including specialized munitions firing and Electronic Warfare suite integration, which were not yet finalized.

2032: Elta EL/M-2032 Radar Units Selected

The Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode radar units were selected for the Mk1 aircraft.

2032: Integration and Testing of Elta EL/M-2032 Radar

The Limited Series Production (LSP) aircraft were used for developmental trials, including sensor trials involving integration and testing of the Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode radar.

2052: Elta EL/M-2052 Radar Units Selected

The Israeli Elta EL/M-2052 Active electronically scanned array radar units were selected for the initial Mk 1A aircraft.

2052: Integration and Testing of EL/M-2052 AESA Radar

The Limited Series Production (LSP) aircraft were used for sensor trials involving integration and testing of the EL/M-2052 AESA radar.

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