Defence minister Rajnath Singh today unveiled the first Tejas LCA MK1A fighter jet from Hindustan Aeronautics’ new Nashik production line. During the event, the Defence Minister also inaugurated a second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft at the same facility. 

 

 

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Singh lauded the flight of the Sukhoi-30, LCA, and HTT-40 aircraft prepared in the Nashik division. He said, the flight of those jets represents the country’s ‘flight of self-reliance’ in the defence sector. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in defence production, stating that it is the country’s resolve to manufacture all defence equipment within the country. He said, prior to 2014, nearly 65 to 70 percent of defence equipment was imported. He added that now, approximately 65 percent of such equipment is being manufactured domestically.

 

 

The Defence Minister said, the maiden flight of the Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet marks a significant milestone in country’s journey toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He praised the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. facility in Nashik, highlighting its crucial role as a strong pillar in bolstering the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities over the past six decades. The Defence Minister also witnessed the maiden flight of the Tejas LCA Mk1A.

 

 

The LCA Mk1A is a more advanced, multi-role fighter jet designed to replace the Indian Air Force’s MiG-21s. It is an upgraded variant of the Tejas, featuring significant enhancements, including improved combat avionics and air-to-air refuelling capabilities. The aircraft is a 4.5-generation, multi-role fighter jet capable of air defence, ground attack, and maritime strike missions. The Tejas Mk1A is equipped with an advanced mix of weapons and payloads tailored for diverse mission profiles, including air superiority, ground strikes, and reconnaissance.