Five LCA MK1A Aircraft Ready For Delivery, Will The IAF Still Face Delays In Receiving The Tejas?

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been waiting for the Tejas (LCA) MK1A for nearly two years. Now, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has stated that five Tejas Mark-1A aircraft are ready for delivery. However, according to sources, the Air Force may have to wait another five to six months to receive these fighter jets.

Officials indicate that these aircraft do not yet meet the quality requirements, known as Service Qualitative Requirements (SQR), as per the Air Force's specifications. It may take a few more months to fulfill these requirements.

When will the aircraft be delivered?

HAL issued a statement saying that five LCA MK1A aircraft are fully ready for delivery and include all the necessary capabilities as per the agreed contract. In addition, nine aircraft have already been manufactured and have undergone flight testing. These aircraft will also be ready for delivery as soon as the engines are received from GE.

Are the Qualitative Requirements met?

HAL stated that the design and development-related issues that were pointed out are being addressed rapidly. It also said that HAL is in constant communication with the Indian Air Force to ensure the aircraft are delivered as soon as possible. However, sources said that the Service Qualitative Requirements (SQR) given by the Air Force to HAL have not yet been met. The process for handing over any aircraft to the Air Force is that HAL will inform the Air Force that all SQRs have been met and that the aircraft are ready for induction tests (tests conducted by the Air Force before inducting the aircraft).

How long will it take to complete the SQR?

According to sources, HAL will provide the timeline, but so far, HAL has not informed the Air Force that the aircraft are ready for induction tests. Sources suggest that it may take five to six months to complete the SQRs, and the Air Force will not induct any aircraft without the SQRs being fully met. A senior official said that there will be no compromise on operational requirements and safety, and the process will only move forward once all SQRs are fulfilled.