India Clears Record-Breaking Orders for Tejas Aircraft and Prachand Helicopters

New Delhi: In a significant boost for India’s military and defence production, the Defence Acquisition Council has greenlit the acquisition of 97 additional Tejas aircraft and 156 Prachand attack helicopters. The combined value of these deals stands at approximately ₹1.1 lakh crore. The Tejas Mark 1-A fighters are being acquired for the Indian Air Force, while the helicopters will serve both the Air Force and the Army.

The Tejas Mark 1-A fighters, equipped with advanced features like an active electronically scanned array radar and electronic warfare suite, are slated for Indian Air Force deployment. Simultaneously, the Prachand helicopters are designated for both the Air Force and the Army, offering strategic advantages in high-altitude regions.

The total value of the cleared deals, including additional procurements, is estimated at around ₹2 lakh crore, marking the largest order in India’s history for indigenous manufacturers. While this approval signifies an Acceptance of Necessity, contract negotiations with manufacturers will follow, potentially expediting the process compared to involving foreign manufacturers.

Upon successful negotiation of the final price, the Cabinet Committee on Security will provide the last sign-off. However, the full induction of these aircraft into the military is anticipated to take at least 10 years. Additionally, a substantial upgrade for the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI aircraft, featuring indigenous developments such as radars, avionics, and subsystems, is expected to be approved, enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Air Force’s existing fleet of over 260 Su-30s.

The Tejas Mk-1A Light Combat Aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), received operational clearance in February 2019, solidifying its role as India’s first self-made fighter jet. Meanwhile, the Prachand Light Combat Helicopters, with their successful induction last year, are set to diversify the Indian Air Force’s attack chopper fleet alongside the HAL Rudra, US-made Apaches, and Russian Mi-35s.