HAL Tejas Mk1A

The HAL Tejas Mk1A is an Indian-developed light combat aircraft (LCA) representing a key milestone in the nation's aerospace indigenization. An upgraded version of the original Tejas, the Mk1A features a more powerful Israeli EL/M-2052 AESA radar, improved electronic warfare suite, and enhanced maintainability. It is designed as a cost-effective, modern replacement for aging MiG-21 fleets, capable of air defense, ground attack, and reconnaissance. While not competing with heavyweights in raw performance, its significance lies in its strategic value for India, offering a capable, customizable platform with lower operating costs and a growing supply chain independence.