Indian Air Force (IAF) marked a major milestone on 4 January 2026, commemorating 25 years of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas since its historic first flight. The Technology Demonstrator TD-1 flew for the first time on 4 January 2001 from HAL Airport, Bengaluru, piloted by Wing Commander Rajiv Kothiyal, symbolising India’s resolve towards defence self-reliance.
With Tejas completing a quarter century of flight, attention is now firmly on LCA Mk II and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which represent the next phase of India’s indigenous fighter development.
Historical Background of LCA Tejas
- Sanctioned: 1983
- Purpose: Replacement of the ageing MiG-21 fleet after retirement of the indigenous HF-24 Marut
- First Flight: 4 January 2001
- Induction into IAF: 2016
Despite facing challenges such as fly-by-wire controls, composite airframes, avionics integration, and engine issues, India succeeded in developing Tejas, making it the smallest and lightest supersonic fighter aircraft in its class.
Over the years, Tejas evolved from technology demonstrators to frontline combat squadrons, with two operational IAF units already in service and large follow-on orders placed.
About LCA Tejas
- Type: Indigenous 4.5-generation, all-weather, multi-role light combat aircraft
- Role: Core element of IAF’s fighter fleet modernisation
Developed By
- Design Agency: Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA)
- Production: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- Programme: Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
Evolution of Tejas
- Tejas Mk-1: Initial operational variant
- Tejas Mk-1A: Improved sensors, AESA radar, enhanced survivability
- Tejas Mk-2: Under development – larger, more powerful, deeper strike capability
Key Features of LCA Tejas
Lightest & Smallest in its Class:
Extensive use of composite materials for reduced weight and high manoeuvrability
Advanced Avionics (4.5-Gen):
- AESA radar
- Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) suite
- Smart Multi-Function Displays (SMFDs)
- Open-architecture mission computer
Quadruplex Fly-by-Wire System:
High agility, precision control, and enhanced flight safety
Multi-Role Capability:
- Air-to-air combat (including BVR missiles)
- Air-to-ground precision strikes
- Maritime strike missions
In-Flight Refuelling (IFR):
Extends operational range and endurance
Variants:
- Single-seat fighter (IAF & Navy)
- Twin-seat trainer
- Mk-1A with improved sensors and survivability
LCA Mk II: Next Leap
- Role: Medium-weight fighter bridging gap between Tejas Mk-1A and AMCA
- Expected Improvements:
- More powerful engine
- Greater payload and range
- Enhanced sensors and avionics
- Improved survivability
LCA Mk II is expected to form the backbone of IAF’s future conventional fighter strength.
AMCA: India’s 5th-Generation Vision
- Type: Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
- Generation: Indigenous 5th-generation stealth fighter
- Focus:
- Stealth design
- Supercruise capability
- Network-centric warfare
- Deep penetration strike
AMCA represents India’s entry into the elite league of nations designing stealth combat aircraft.
Strategic Significance
- Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence:
Tejas is a cornerstone of India’s indigenous aerospace capability - MiG-21 Replacement:
Provides a modern, agile, and cost-effective alternative - Industrial Ecosystem:
Strengthens domestic supply chains and aerospace manufacturing - Export Potential:
Several countries in Asia and Africa have shown interest in Tejas
Why 25 Years of Tejas Matters
- Demonstrates India’s ability to design, test, certify, and produce combat aircraft
- Builds confidence for future projects like LCA Mk II and AMCA
- Marks the transition from technology dependence to design leadership in military aviation