New Delhi: India’s defence manufacturing landscape witnessed a significant milestone as Larsen & Toubro (L&T) successfully delivered the second set of wing assemblies for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS MK-1A to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) — a pivotal step in accelerating production of the advanced 4.5-generation fighter designed for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
This development further strengthens India’s Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) goals by deepening public-private collaboration and enhancing domestic aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
What Is the TEJAS MK-1A
The TEJAS MK-1A is the modernised variant of India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, featuring:
- State-of-the-art avionics and electronic warfare systems
- Advanced AESA radar, beyond-visual-range missile integration capability
- Improved survivability and combat effectiveness compared to earlier variants
- Designed and produced primarily by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) with broader private sector participation
This fighter jet is central to modernising the IAF’s fleet, helping replace ageing MiG-21 and older platforms, and contributing to India’s strategic air combat readiness.
Importance of Second Set of Indigenous Tejas MK-1A Wing Delivery
L&T’s delivery of the second set of wing assemblies follows on from its first handover earlier in July 2025, supplied from its Precision Manufacturing and Systems Complex in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
These wings — critical flight-control and lift components — must meet exacting aerospace quality standards, highlighting L&T’s engineering capabilities and evolving role in defence manufacturing.
According to industry sources:
- L&T plans to supply four wing sets annually initially
- Ambitious goals aim to increase this to 12 sets per year through automation and advanced production processes
- These efforts support HAL’s wider plans to accelerate assembly of TEJAS MK-1A jets on multiple fronts
Background of Indigenous Tejas MK-1A Wing
The initial contract for 83 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft was formalised in 2021, valued at around ₹48,000 crore, with deliveries initially expected in 2024.
However, production has faced delays — primarily due to slower deliveries of General Electric F404-IN20 engines, crucial powerplants for the fighter jets.
HAL now projects delivering:
- 5 fighter variants and 3 trainer aircraft by March 2026
- An acceleration to 12 aircraft in 2025 and about 20 per year thereafter, subject to timely engine supply
Additional Orders and Long-Term Impact
In August 2025, the Indian government approved a second order for 97 MK-1A jets — a deal estimated at roughly ₹62,000 crore, scheduled for deliveries between 2028 and 2031. Scaling production to meet these targets will necessitate increased private sector involvement and streamlined manufacturing processes.
