The Indian Air Force will take delivery of two Tejas Mark 1A fighter aircraft in October 2025. The delivery, however, is behind schedule. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has finalized the preparations for delivery. Before the jets are handed over, a series of firing tests will take place in September, which will include the Astra Beyond Visual Range missile, the ASRAM short-range missile, and laser-guided bombs. The success of these tests is crucial before the aircraft are inducted. Prior tests showed mixed results, which prompted necessary software changes.
GE, an American company, will supply engines for the Tejas Mark 1A, providing 10 engines by March next year and an additional 20 engines by December 2026. This supply is expected to accelerate the delivery of Tejas aircraft to the Air Force.