Indian Air Force to Receive 97 LCA Mark 1A Fighter Jets Following Government Approval

A recent approval from the Indian government paves the way for the procurement of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. The decision, confirmed during an August 19th meeting, will allow Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to begin production of the aircraft. This order follows a previous one for 83 LCA Mark 1A fighters, which was valued at around Rs 48,000 crore. The project will assist the Indian Air Force in replacing its aging MiG-21 fleet, which is scheduled to be retired in the next few weeks. This initiative, backed by the Defence Ministry and Air Headquarters, aims to foster indigenization within the defense sector and provide substantial business opportunities for small and medium enterprises across the country. The government is focused on revitalizing HAL, which has secured contracts for indigenous aircraft, helicopter, and engine production.