New Delhi: Tejas Mk2 cost is expected to be only about 23% higher than the current Tejas Mk1A, despite the aircraft being significantly larger, more powerful, and technologically advanced. Industry estimates suggest the next-generation fighter could cost around ₹790-800 crore per aircraft if current projections hold true.
The development has drawn attention because the Tejas Mk2 is designed to deliver capabilities much closer to medium-weight fighters while maintaining a relatively controlled acquisition cost.
Why Is the Tejas Mk2 Cost Generating Interest
The Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth over ₹62,370 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in September 2025 for 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft, including 68 fighters and 29 twin-seaters.
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This puts the average cost of a Tejas Mk1A at roughly ₹640-650 crore per aircraft when calculated from the contract value. Based on industry projections, a 23% increase would place the Tejas Mk2 at approximately ₹790-800 crore per aircraft.
What Makes Tejas Mk2 Different From Mk1A
The Tejas Mk2, also known as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), is a significantly upgraded platform compared to the Tejas Mk1A.
It features a larger airframe, higher internal fuel capacity, improved range, advanced sensors, enhanced avionics, and greater payload capability. The aircraft is expected to carry up to 6,500 kg of external weapons across multiple hardpoints, making it far more capable than the current Tejas variants.
More Powerful Engine for Better Performance
One of the biggest upgrades in the Tejas Mk2 is its engine. The aircraft is expected to use the General Electric F414 engine, which generates significantly more thrust than the F404 engine currently used on the Tejas Mk1A. The additional power will improve payload capacity, combat performance, and operational flexibility.
Why Could the Price Increase Remain Limited
Defence analysts believe the relatively modest price increase could be possible because India is leveraging the existing Tejas ecosystem.
HAL, DRDO, and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) are expected to reuse production infrastructure, supplier networks, manufacturing experience, and several design elements already developed for the Tejas programme. This approach can reduce development and production costs compared to creating an entirely new fighter aircraft.
Tejas Mk2 Development Progress
The Tejas Mk2 programme continues to move forward under India’s indigenous fighter aircraft roadmap.
The project has already received government approval for prototype development, and plans include multiple flying prototypes before the aircraft enters extensive testing and certification phases.
