The Indian Air Force is set to receive the latest version of the Indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft by the end of this month, marking a significant development in India’s aerial defence capabilities. This delivery, although delayed by over a year, comes at a crucial time when rising tensions with neighbouring Pakistan have underscored the urgent need for modern combat aircraft.
India has been seeking to replace its ageing fleet of MiG-21s and Jaguars with homegrown fighters, and the Tejas project aligns perfectly with this strategy. Due to delays and slow production, India currently operates only 31 combat squadrons, far below the ideal strength of 42 squadrons required for full operational readiness.
Tejas: A Homegrown Marvel with Global Technology
Tejas, a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) designed and developed entirely in India, marks a significant milestone in the country’s defence manufacturing sector. This fourth-generation fighter boasts several modern features, making it highly capable in various combat roles.
While indigenous, Tejas owes some of its cutting-edge capabilities to Israeli technology. The aircraft’s advanced radar and electronic warfare systems have been supplied by leading Israeli defence firms, making it one of the most advanced fighters in its class.
AESA Radar: The Game Changer
The key to Tejas’ superiority lies in its AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar system, developed by ELTA Systems, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries. This radar technology offers unmatched capabilities in tracking multiple aerial, ground, and sea-based targets simultaneously.
Compared to traditional radar systems, AESA radars are more difficult to detect and jam, making the Tejas a formidable platform in any battlefield scenario. This technology enables the aircraft to identify and engage enemy threats with precision and speed, a critical advantage in modern warfare.
Electronic Warfare Suite and Helmet-Mounted Systems
Alongside AESA radar, Tejas is also equipped with a sophisticated electronic warfare suite. The pilot benefits from an advanced helmet-mounted display system designed by Elbit Systems of Israel, enhancing situational awareness during high-speed combat. Additionally, the aircraft is capable of deploying radar-guided Derby missiles, which provide superior air-to-air engagement capabilities.
A total of 83 upgraded Tejas aircraft will feature these Israeli systems, with most of them being assembled in India through collaborations with local firms. This step supports the Indian government’s ambitious ‘Make in India’ campaign.
Tejas vs. Global Competitors
Earlier, India faced setbacks when France refused to share Rafale source codes, and the U.S. withheld fighter engine technologies. In contrast, Israel’s willingness to supply cutting-edge radar and warfare systems has helped fill this gap, pushing the Tejas closer to Western fighter standards.
Ironically, Tejas may carry more Israeli technology than Israel’s fighters, which primarily rely on U.S.-made radars due to export restrictions. This technological edge gives Tejas an advantage against rivals like China and Pakistan, especially in the context of border security in sensitive regions.
Why AESA Matters?
- Tracks multiple targets simultaneously.
- Detects both air and ground threats with high accuracy.
- Provides stealth advantages by being difficult to detect and jam.
- Offers enhanced battlefield awareness and quick response capabilities.
- Suitable for fighter jets, warships, and UAVs alike.
- Future Upgrades and Global Interest
HAL is already working on the next generation of Tejas, which is expected to feature improved manoeuvrability, increased range, and canard wings for better agility. Israeli, French, and American companies are all competing to contribute to these systems, which could make the future Tejas even more lethal.
A Guard Against Threats from the North and West
With Tejas, India is not only modernising its air fleet but also strengthening its defence manufacturing ecosystem. Its deployment along the borders with China and Pakistan will bolster national security, ensuring readiness against any aerial threat.
Though production delays and quality concerns must still be addressed, Tejas remains a symbol of India’s technological growth and military self-reliance. Under Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision, this fighter jet signals a new era in India’s defence posture — one where foreign dependence is reduced and Indigenous strength rises.
