New Delhi: Tejas Mk2 deep strike capability is set to receive a major boost as India plans early integration of advanced missiles like SCALP, Crystal Maze, and Rampage. These long-range precision weapons will allow the Indian Air Force (IAF) to hit high-value enemy targets from a safe distance.
The move is part of India’s strategy to strengthen its indigenous fighter jet program and improve stand-off strike capability. The Tejas Mk2, being developed by ADA and HAL, is expected to become a powerful multirole fighter with modern weapons, better range, and higher payload capacity.
What is Tejas Mk2 Fighter Jet
Tejas Mk2 is a next-generation medium-weight fighter jet designed to replace older aircraft like Mirage 2000 and Jaguar.
- Developed by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
- Manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- More powerful than Tejas Mk1A
- Expected induction around 2028–29
Read also: The Future of Indian Air Power: How Tejas Mk2 and AMCA Are Transforming India’s Long-Range Air Power
The aircraft will have:
- Higher payload capacity
- Longer combat range
- Advanced avionics and radar
- 11 weapon stations for multiple weapons
This makes it ideal for deep-strike missions inside enemy territory.
Latest Update on Tejas Mk2 Missile Upgrade
Here are the latest update on Tejas Mk2 missile upgrade;
1. SCALP Cruise Missile
SCALP (also used on Rafale jets) is a long-range cruise missile.
- Range: Up to ~500+ km
- Designed to destroy bunkers and military bases
- Flies at low altitude to avoid radar detection
Benefits: This allows Tejas Mk2 to strike targets without entering enemy air defence zones.
2. Crystal Maze Missile
Crystal Maze is a precision-guided air-to-ground missile.
- Range: Around 100–250 km
- Targets: Radar stations, command centers
- High accuracy for critical infrastructure strikes
Benefits: Ideal for destroying enemy air defence systems first.
3. Rampage Missile
Rampage is a high-speed strike missile already used by the IAF.
- Very fast, low-drag missile
- Integrated on Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar
- Proven in real operations with high precision
Benefits: Its integration with Tejas Mk2 will give quick-response strike capability.
What is the Importance of Tejas Mk2 Missile Upgrade
Early integration means these weapons will be built into the aircraft from the beginning, not added later.
Key Advantages:
- Faster operational readiness
- Better weapon-aircraft compatibility
- Improved mission planning
- Higher combat efficiency
This ensures Tejas Mk2 becomes combat-ready faster once inducted.
Boost to India’s Deep-Strike Capability
With these missiles, Tejas Mk2 can:
- Strike targets hundreds of kilometers away
- Avoid enemy radar and air defence systems
- Carry out precision attacks on strategic locations
- Support missions similar to Balakot-type operations
Its increased fuel and payload capacity further enhance long-range missions .
Strategic Importance for India
This development is important because:
- Reduces dependence on foreign fighter jets
- Strengthens “Make in India” defence push
- Enhances deterrence against China and Pakistan
- Improves IAF’s ability to conduct modern warfare
Tejas Mk2 will act as a bridge between current fighters and future 5th-generation aircraft.
Future Weapons Integration
In later phases, Tejas Mk2 is also expected to carry:
- Astra Mk1, Mk2 air-to-air missiles
- BrahMos-NG (lightweight version)
- Rudram anti-radiation missile
This will make it a fully multi-role fighter.
