HAL to Perform the First Flight of TEJAS MK-1A Fighter Aircraft from Nashik on October 17
India to ramp up domestic production of indigenous fighter aircraft with the first TEJAS MK-1A rollout from the Nashik facility
Indian state-owned defense conglomerate Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is getting ready to perform the inaugural flight of the TEJAS MK-1A fighter jet from its newly commissioned Nashik production facility on October 17, a significant milestone in the journey of India's aerospace manufacturing.
This flight will be the first from HAL's third TEJAS MK-1A production line, which will have a production capacity of up to eight aircraft per year. Coupled with HAL's two existing lines in Bengaluru, the overall capacity will allow HAL to produce 24 fighter jets per annum.
Originally scheduled for May, the rollout faced delays due to technical adjustments and engine supply issues. Following recent approvals from the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), the Nashik plant is now ready for flight trials. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to witness the historic event, though official confirmation is awaited.
Addressing Production Hurdles
HAL's production schedule was held up due to shortfalls in GE-404 engines, but new deliveries addressed the bottleneck and enabled the Nashik division to continue testing and delivery to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by 2025.
Next-Gen Combat Power
The TEJAS MK-1A is a major technological improvement with more than 40 upgrades over previous variants. A 4.5-generation fighter, it combines:
- Uttam AESA Radar (indigenous)
- Advanced Electronic Warfare systems
- Digital Fly-by-Wire controls
- Improved aerodynamic characteristics for increased agility
- Refuelling ability in flight
- Rapid maintenance turnaround and BVR missile compatibility
Aiming for 70% indigenous content over the years, MK-1A will replace India's vintage MiG-21 fleet, tremendously enhancing the IAF's operational capability. HAL is expected to deliver the first two aircraft soon after the first flight.
Strategic Push for Aatmanirbharta
The Nashik facility, manned by more than 2,200 professionals, comprising over 1,100 experienced technical experts and close to 400 engineers, has emerged as one of the pillars of India's self-reliant defence industry.
The first flight of TEJAS MK-1A from Nashik is being celebrated as a game-changer in India's aerospace history — an episode that exemplifies the nation's capacity to absorb latest technology, ramp up indigenous manufacturing, and make itself competitively strong in the world aviation industry.
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