The Indian Air Force is anticipating the arrival of two Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets in October 2025. HAL has completed all required preparations for the delivery, although the handover is delayed by roughly two years. Before the jets can be delivered, a range of firing tests will be conducted in September, assessing the performance of missiles such as the Astra Beyond Visual Range missile, ASRAM short-range missile and laser-guided bombs. The jets will be given to the IAF after these trials are completed successfully. Earlier tests had mixed outcomes, leading to necessary software revisions.
The supply of engines from GE is poised to speed up the deliveries. The American company will supply 10 engines by March next year and an additional 20 by December 2026. This is expected to increase the rate at which the Air Force receives its Tejas fighters.
