Tejas Delays Threaten IAF Readiness, Air Chief Warns

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh on [date] said that delays in the Tejas combat jet programme are hurting the Indian Air Force's capabilities. The statement came during a press interaction in New Delhi, underscoring growing concerns over the indigenous fighter's slow production and delivery timeline.

The Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has faced repeated delays, with the IAF still awaiting deliveries of the 83 Tejas Mk1A jets ordered in 2021. Air Chief Marshal Singh noted that India is looking to finalise the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) deal by this financial year, provided things go as per plan. The MRFA tender, for 114 jets, has been pending for years, and the delay in Tejas deliveries has exacerbated the IAF's squadron shortage, which currently stands at 31 against a sanctioned strength of 42.

The Air Chief's remarks highlight the urgent need to bolster the IAF's combat fleet amid rising regional tensions. The finalisation of the MRFA deal would be a significant step, but global vendors and geopolitical factors could impact the timeline. The government is expected to push for faster indigenous production while balancing immediate procurement needs.