Editing HAL Tejas (section)

==Development==
{{For timeline}}

===LCA programme===
[[File:LCA-Tejas Production Partners.jpg|thumb|LCA Tejas production partners]]

The LCA programme originated in the early 1980s. In 1983, the Government of India established the LCA project with the initial goal to develop a new light combat aircraft to replace the ageing IAF fighters, especially the [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21|MiG-21]] variants,<ref name=":15">{{Cite news|last=Alex Philip|first=Snehesh|date=8 August 2021|title=Tejas flying record world's best, criticism unfortunate, says IAF veteran who flew LCA at 78|work=[[ThePrint]]|url=https://theprint.in/defence/tejas-flying-record-worlds-best-criticism-unfortunate-says-iaf-veteran-who-flew-lca-at-78/710466/|access-date=31 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031040444/https://theprint.in/defence/tejas-flying-record-worlds-best-criticism-unfortunate-says-iaf-veteran-who-flew-lca-at-78/710466/|archive-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> which had been the mainstay of the IAF since 1963.<ref name=":14">{{Cite news|last=Alex Philip|first=Snehesh|date=24 May 2021|title=11 down in 5 yrs, 3 in 2021, but many in IAF still swear by MiG-21s despite its 'safety record'|work=[[ThePrint]]|url=https://theprint.in/defence/11-down-in-5-yrs-3-in-2021-but-many-in-iaf-still-swear-by-mig-21s-despite-its-safety-record/663813/|access-date=31 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031041009/https://theprint.in/defence/11-down-in-5-yrs-3-in-2021-but-many-in-iaf-still-swear-by-mig-21s-despite-its-safety-record/663813/|archive-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> At one point the IAF had operated as many as 874 [[MiG-21]]s.<ref name=":14"/> The "Long Term Re-Equipment Plan 1981" noted that most of these IAF fighters were approaching the end of their service lives by the early-1990s, and that by 1995, the IAF would be 40 percent short of the aircraft needed to fill its projected force structure requirements.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Biswas|first1=Shreya|date=1 July 2016|title=Tejas Light Combat Aircraft: Here's how India created its first Flying Dagger|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/fyi/story/tejas-light-combat-aircraft-history-indian-air-force-326777-2016-07-01|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008205808/https://www.indiatoday.in/fyi/story/tejas-light-combat-aircraft-history-indian-air-force-326777-2016-07-01|archive-date=8 October 2021|access-date=2 November 2021|website=India Today}}</ref>

In 1984, the Government of India established [[Aeronautical Development Agency]] (ADA) under the aegis of [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) to manage the LCA programme.<ref name=":15"/> The ADA was entrusted with the design and development of LCA while HAL was chosen as the principal contractor.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Subramanian|first=T.S|date=11 March 2011|title=Technology giant|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/advertorial/article30174759.ece|journal=[[Frontline (magazine)|Frontline]]|publisher=[[The Hindu Group]]|issn=0970-1710|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228183931/https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/advertorial/article30174759.ece|archive-date=28 February 2021}}</ref> The government's "self-reliance" goals for the LCA included the three most sophisticated and challenging systems: the [[Fly-by-wire]] (FBW) flight control system, multi-mode [[pulse-doppler radar]], and [[Afterburner|afterburning]] [[Turbofan|turbofan engine]].<ref name=":18">{{Cite news|last=Reddy|first=C.Manmohan|date=16 September 2002|title=LCA economics|work=[[The Hindu]]|url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/biz/2002/09/16/stories/2002091600190300.htm|access-date=31 October 2021|archive-date=17 March 2009|issn=0971-751X|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090317030448/http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/biz/2002/09/16/stories/2002091600190300.htm}}</ref>

The [[Specification|project definition]] phase was commenced in October 1986<ref name=":15"/> with France's [[Dassault|Dassault-Breguet]] Aviation as consultant. Dassault-Breguet's expertise was mainly utilised in the design and system integration of the Tejas.<ref>{{cite magazine |date=24 October 1987 |title=Dassault wins Indian LCA contract |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%202148.html |magazine=[[Flight International]] |location=London |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222053019/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1987/1987%20-%202148.html |archive-date=22 December 2017}}</ref> In 1988, Dassault offered a hybrid fly by wire flight control system for the LCA, consisting of three digital channels and one analogue channel, with a redundant analogue channel as a back up in case the digital channels fails. But the ADA was in favour of a quadruplex digital FBW flight control system.<ref name=":16" />

The design of the Tejas was finalised in 1990 as a small tailless [[Delta wing|compound delta wing]] design with [[relaxed static stability]]. To provide enhanced manoeuvrability it would be a [[Fly-by-wire#Safety and redundancy|''control configured vehicle'']] incorporating a digital FBW flight control system.<ref name=":16">{{Cite book|last=Rajkumar|first=Philip|title=Tejas Story: The Light Combat Aircraft Project|publisher=Manohar Publishers and Distributors|date=1 January 2007|isbn=978-8173047640|pages=47–49|language=en}}</ref> [[Kota Harinarayana]] was the Programme Director and Chief Designer of Tejas.<ref name=":16" /><ref>{{Cite news|date=2016-08-22|title=Tejas chief designer felicitated|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/Tejas-chief-designer-felicitated/article14583452.ece|access-date=2021-10-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031144857/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/Tejas-chief-designer-felicitated/article14583452.ece|archive-date=31 October 2021|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In 1992, a dedicated ''National Control Law (CLAW)'' team was set up by the [[National Aerospace Laboratories]] to develop India's own state of the art FBW flight control system for the Tejas. Initially [[Lockheed Martin]]'s consultancy was sought. But it was terminated following a US embargo in response to India's second [[Pokhran-II|nuclear tests]] in 1998.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mama |first=Hormuz |date=4 November 1998 |title=Indian ambition |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/indian-ambition/23907.article |url-status=live |access-date=2023-01-27 |website=Flight Global |language=en |archive-date=10 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230410152655/https://www.flightglobal.com/indian-ambition/23907.article }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last=Taylor|first=Michael J. H|title=Brassey's World Aircraft & Systems Directory 1999-2000|publisher=University of Nebraska Press|date=1 May 1999|isbn=978-1857532456|pages=29–30|language=en}}</ref> This delayed the programme partly by about 18 months.<ref name=":16" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Reddy |first=C Manmohan |date=2003-03-13 |title=The LCA success |url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/article30215962.ece |url-status=live |access-date=2023-01-27 |website=frontline.thehindu.com |language=en |archive-date=27 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230127212326/https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/article30215962.ece }}</ref> Later India indigenously developed a quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system for Tejas.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2013-12-26 |title=PICTURES: India's Tejas receives initial operational clearance |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/pictures-indias-tejas-receives-initial-operational-clearance-/112040.article |access-date=2023-12-17 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref>

[[File:KH2002 HAL Tejas Indian Air Force (8413494671).jpg|thumb|Tejas technology demonstrator in inverted flight]]
The CLAW team completed the design and integration of the flight control laws with the flight control system software, with the aid of an ''Iron Bird'' test rig. The quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system conducted over 50 hours of pilot testing on Iron Bird Test Rig. On 4 January 2001, on its maiden flight, the TD-1 successfully flew with an indigenous quadruplex digital FBW flight control system.<ref name=":16" /> The aerodynamic characterization research was conducted at the National Aerospace Laboratories' 1.2m Trisonic Wind Tunnel Facility.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-06 |title=Bengaluru: 1.2m trisonic wind tunnel at National Aerospace Laboratories completes 55 years of service |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/bengaluru-12m-trisonic-wind-tunnel-at-national-aerospace-laboratories-completes-55-years-of-service20220606001500/ |access-date=2024-11-22 |website=ANI |language=en}}</ref>

Another critical technology needed for LCA was the multi-mode radar (MMR). Initially, the [[Ericsson]]/[[Ferranti]] PS-05/A I/J-band multi-function radar, also used on [[Saab Group|Saab]]'s [[Saab JAS 39 Gripen|JAS 39 Gripen]], was intended to be used.<ref>{{Cite book|last1=Taylor|first1=John W.R|title="HAL Light Combat Aircraft" in "Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1989-1990"|last2=Munson|first2=Kenneth|last3=Taylor|first3=Michael J.H|publisher=Jane's Information Group|year=1989|isbn=0-7106-0896-9|location=Coulsdon, Surrey, UK|page=104}}</ref> However, DRDO decided to develop an indigenous multi-mode radar for the Tejas. HAL's Hyderabad division and the DRDO's [[Electronics and Radar Development Establishment]] (LRDE) laboratory were selected to jointly lead the MMR programme, and work commenced in 1997.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|last=Aroor|first=Shiv|date=7 April 2006|title='Indigenous' aircraft needs foreign lift, for its radar|work=[[The Indian Express]]|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/-indigenous--aircraft-needs-foreign-lift-for-its-radar/2025/|access-date=1 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108005636/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/-indigenous--aircraft-needs-foreign-lift-for-its-radar/2025/|archive-date=8 January 2016}}</ref> The [[Centre for Airborne Systems]] (CABS) was responsible for the MMR's test programme. An [[Hawker Siddeley HS 748 Series 2A|HAL-748]] airborne surveillance aircraft was converted for this purpose.<ref name=":17">{{Cite book|last=Kapur|first=Vivek|title=Indian Aircraft Industry: Possible Innovations for Success in the Twenty-First Century|publisher=KW Publishers|date=1 January 2018|isbn=978-9386288684|pages=57–58|language=en}}</ref> The development of multi-mode was not smooth, as it suffered some setbacks. By 2005, only two radar modes – the air-to-air look-up and look-down - were confirmed to have been successfully tested. The performance of several other modes that had been tested were suboptimal.<ref name=":17"/> The problem with the radar was mainly attributed to the lack of compatibility between the LRDE/HAL multi mode radar and the LRDE's advanced signal processor module.<ref name=":1"/> Using an "off-the-shelf" foreign radar as an interim option was considered.<ref name=":19">{{Cite news|last=Sharma|first=Ravi|date=2008-10-03|title=LCA to be fitted with Israeli multi-mode radar|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/LCA-to-be-fitted-with-Israeli-multi-mode-radar/article15315625.ece|access-date=2021-11-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006092153/http://www.hindu.com/2008/10/03/stories/2008100356310900.htm|archive-date=6 October 2008|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

ADA met with success in the development of three of the five key technologies identified at the beginning of the LCA programme. The successful endeavours were mastery in the FBW flight control system,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tejas Light Combat Supersonic Fighter |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/tejas/ |access-date=2022-11-21 |website=Airforce Technology |language=en-US |archive-date=11 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411014434/https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/tejas/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":16" /> the development and manufacturing of carbon-fibre composite structures and skins, and a modern [[glass cockpit]]. The ''Autolay'' [[computer-aided design]] software developed as part of the LCA programme has been licensed to [[Airbus]] for its [[Airbus A380|A380]] wide-body aircraft project.<ref name=":18"/> The development of a multi-mode pulse-doppler radar was abandoned,<ref name=":19"/> off the shelf Israeli [[Elta Systems|Elta]] [[EL/M-2032]] multi-mode and [[EL/M-2052]] [[Active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) radar units being selected for the Mk1 and initial Mk1a aircraft, respectively,<ref name="aviationweek.com" /> while DRDO opted, in 2012, to develop its own [[Uttam AESA Radar]], as of 2024 the Uttam radar is undergoing flight trials.<ref name=":21">{{Cite journal|last=Sharma|first=Ravi|date=24 February 2021|title=At least half of the 123 Tejas fighters ordered by the IAF to have India-made fire control radar|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/at-least-half-of-the-123-tejas-fighters-ordered-by-the-iaf-to-have-india-made-fire-control-radar/article33919219.ece|journal=[[Frontline (magazine)|Frontline]]|issn=0970-1710|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308001919/https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/at-least-half-of-the-123-tejas-fighters-ordered-by-the-iaf-to-have-india-made-fire-control-radar/article33919219.ece|archive-date=8 March 2021}}</ref> India's self-reliance goal oriented development for the LCA programme has considerably increased the indigenous components in Tejas and contributed to an aviation industry expansion in the country.<ref name="Tejas Mk1a">{{cite news|last=Pubby|first=Manu|date=13 January 2021|title=India clears deal to manufacture LCA Mk1A 'Tejas' fighter jets for the air force|work=[[The Economic Times]]|publisher=The Times Group|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-clears-deal-to-manufacture-lca-mk1a-tejas-fighter-jets-for-the-air-force/articleshow/80251604.cms|access-date=17 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113130347/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-clears-deal-to-manufacture-lca-mk1a-tejas-fighter-jets-for-the-air-force/articleshow/80251604.cms|archive-date=13 January 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alex Philip|first=Snehesh|date=2021-01-13|title=Govt clears Rs 48,000-cr deal for 83 Tejas fighters — all you want to know about the aircraft|url=https://theprint.in/defence/govt-clears-rs-48000-cr-deal-for-83-tejas-mk-1a-all-you-want-to-know-about-the-aircraft/584743/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902070910/https://theprint.in/defence/govt-clears-rs-48000-cr-deal-for-83-tejas-mk-1a-all-you-want-to-know-about-the-aircraft/584743/|archive-date=2 September 2021|access-date=2021-11-01|website=ThePrint|language=en-US}}</ref>

On 20 December 2021, [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] (MoD) in a written reply during winter session of [[Rajya Sabha]] clarified that the HAL Tejas is no longer considered as a replacement for the [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21]], instead it is now part of a general IAF fleet modernisation programme.<ref>{{cite web|date=20 December 2021|title=Tejas Aircraft Not A Replacement For MIG-21 Fighters: Defence Ministry|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tejas-aircraft-not-a-replacement-for-mig-21-fighters-defence-ministry-2661734|url-status=live|access-date=2021-12-20|website=NDTV|archive-date=20 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211220202630/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/tejas-aircraft-not-a-replacement-for-mig-21-fighters-defence-ministry-2661734}}</ref>

===Prototypes and testing===
[[File:LCA Tejas maiden air-to-air refuelling.ogg|thumb|Tejas FOC on wet contact trial from [[Ilyushin Il-78]] tanker|left]]
Prototype testing began in 2003, a year after the first flight of the second Technology Demonstrator (TD-2).<ref name=":7" /> The first prototype aircraft, PV-1, made its maiden flight in 2003. The first trainer prototype PV-5 was rolled out in 2009 and made its first flight on 26 November 2009.<ref name=":7" /> A total of two trainer prototypes were built and designated PV-5 and PV-06. The first naval prototype, designated NP-1, made its first flight on 27 April 2012. It was a twin-seater aircraft, while the second naval prototype, designated as NP-2, was a single seater. Both naval prototypes were used extensively for various [[aircraft carrier]]-related trials at the [[Shore Based Test Facility]] in Goa. NP-2 was used in the actual carrier trials, where it made an arrested recovery and ski-jump assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier {{INS|Vikramaditya}} in January 2020.<ref name=":20" />

[[File:IAF Tejas landing (33068021935).jpg|thumb|Tejas Limited Series Production aircraft LSP-3 on landing run]]
The first Limited Series Production aircraft (LSP-1) performed its maiden flight on 25 April 2007.<ref name=":7" /> A total of seven limited series production (LSP) aircraft were built. The LSPs were extensively used for developmental trials such as weapon testing – involving test firing of the [[R-73 (missile)|R-73]]<ref>{{Cite news|date=2010-12-01|title=Tejas test-fires missile successfully|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Tejas-test-fires-missile-successfully/article15575578.ece|access-date=2021-11-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211020170215/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Tejas-test-fires-missile-successfully/article15575578.ece|archive-date=20 October 2021|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> and Python-5 close combat missiles, the [[Python (missile)#I-Derby ER|I-Derby ER]] beyond visual range air-to-air missile<ref name=":10">{{cite web|last1=Bedi|first1=Rahul|last2=Dominguez|first2=Gabriel|date=28 April 2021|title=India test-fires Python 5 AAM from Tejas LCA|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/india-test-fires-python-5-aam-from-tejas-lca|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717145349/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/india-test-fires-python-5-aam-from-tejas-lca|archive-date=17 July 2021|access-date=2021-07-17|website=Janes.com|language=en}}</ref> and guided–unguided munition releases.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sharma|first=Ravi|date=2009-02-05|title=Tejas crosses a milestone|url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/02/05/stories/2009020560511000.htm|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090207064454/http://hindu.com/2009/02/05/stories/2009020560511000.htm|archive-date=7 February 2009|access-date=16 March 2016|work=[[The Hindu]]|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=29 May 2014|title=Advanced Weapon Trials of Tejas Fighter Completed|newspaper=[[The New Indian Express]]|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Advanced-Weapon-Trials-of-Tejas-Fighter-Completed/2014/05/29/article2250943.ece|access-date=22 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516232504/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2014/may/29/Advanced-Weapon-Trials-of-Tejas-Fighter-Completed-618586.html|archive-date=16 May 2021}}</ref> The LSPs were also used for sensor trials involving integration and testing of the Israeli [[Elta Systems|Elta]] [[EL/M-2032]] multi-mode radar, and [[EL/M-2052]] AESA radar,<ref name="aviationweek.com">{{cite web|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=22 April 2010|title=LCA Set To Fly With Israeli Radar|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/04/22/awx_04_22_2010_p0-221793.xml&headline=LCA%20Set%20To%20Fly%20With%20Israeli%20Radar|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510044225/http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news%2Fawx%2F2010%2F04%2F22%2Fawx_04_22_2010_p0-221793.xml&headline=LCA%20Set%20To%20Fly%20With%20Israeli%20Radar|archive-date=10 May 2011|access-date=30 June 2014|website=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]]|publisher=[[Aviation Week Network]]}}</ref> and the Indian [[Uttam AESA Radar]]<ref name=":21"/> and Rafael [[Litening]] targeting pod.<ref name=":17"/> The Uttam radar was integrated on the Tejas LSP-2 and LSP-3, and logged about 30 hours of flight testing on the Tejas alone.<ref name=":21"/> The high altitude trials<ref name=":22">{{cite web|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=5 February 2014|title=Tejas Set to Begin High-altitude Trials|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2014/feb/05/Tejas-Set-to-Begin-High-altitude-Trials-572285.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102082940/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2014/feb/05/Tejas-Set-to-Begin-High-altitude-Trials-572285.html|archive-date=2 November 2021|access-date=2021-11-02|website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> and hot weather trials were carried out with the LSPs and the PV-3 prototype, in IOC<ref name=":23">{{cite web|date=2010-06-13|title=Tejas undergoes second phase of hot weather trials|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/tejas-undergoes-second-phase-of-hot-weather-trials/story-kNJt4SXceTVZRx9z1dmh6K.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102083249/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/tejas-undergoes-second-phase-of-hot-weather-trials/story-kNJt4SXceTVZRx9z1dmh6K.html|archive-date=2 November 2021|access-date=2021-11-02|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref> and FOC configurations.<ref name=":22"/> These trials were mainly focused on assessing the performance of the various sensors and avionics on board, at temperatures ranging from below -10 degree Celsius<ref name=":22"/> to more than +45 degrees Celsius.<ref name=":23"/>

Sea trials to assess the radar performance in air-to-air and air-to-sea modes at various altitudes were carried out in 2010. Flutter vibration tests were also carried out in different configurations at high [[angle of attack]] (AoA) to assess the structural integrity across the [[flight envelope]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=15 September 2010|title=Indian LCA Undergoing Sea Trials|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/09/15/awx_09_15_2010_p0-254982.xml|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110510044145/http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news%2Fawx%2F2010%2F09%2F15%2Fawx_09_15_2010_p0-254982.xml|archive-date=10 May 2011|access-date=30 June 2014|work=[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]]|publisher=[[Aviation Week Network]]}}</ref> LSP-4 completed the successful trial of BDL developed Counter Measure Dispensing System (CMDS) with R-73 missile on 2 December 2010. It worked well Open Architecture Mission Computer and Digital Stores Management System.<ref>{{cite web |date=3 December 2010 |title=LCA Tejas successfully testfires Chaff, Flares |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2010/dec/03/lca-tejas-successfully-testfires-chaff-flares-207807.html |access-date=2022-07-06 |website=The New Indian Express |archive-date=7 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107035637/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2010/dec/03/lca-tejas-successfully-testfires-chaff-flares-207807.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the second half of 2012, the Tejas fleet was grounded for over three months and the ejection system had to be modified to resume flight tests by the end of 2012.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=2012-11-27|title=After three months on ground, combat aircraft Tejas resumes test flight|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/after-three-months-on-ground-combat-aircraft-tejas-resumes-test-flight-112112702031_1.html|access-date=2021-11-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805231156/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/after-three-months-on-ground-combat-aircraft-tejas-resumes-test-flight-112112702031_1.html|archive-date=5 August 2020}}</ref> In 2013, Tejas (LSP-7) conducted an inflight [[Windmill restart|engine relight]] test at high altitude to assess the engine response on flameout, a critical parameter for operational clearance. The inflight engine relight test is crucial for single engine combat aircraft.<ref>{{cite news|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=28 September 2013|title=Maiden engine relight test of Tejas held|newspaper=The New Indian Express|url=http://newindianexpress.com/nation/Maiden-engine-relight-test-of-Tejas-held/2013/09/28/article1807563.ece|access-date=28 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517000550/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2013/sep/28/Maiden-engine-relight-test-of-Tejas-held-519152.html|archive-date=17 May 2021}}</ref> On 15 April 2023, HAL received a flight clearance certificate for the Aircraft Mounted Accessory Gear Box (AMAGB) [[Bearing (mechanical)|bearings]] and [[power take-off shaft]]. The [[Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification]] (CEMILAC) also gave clearance for the pre-production of landing gear seals developed by the [[Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment]] (CVRDE) and Fluoro Carbon Seals Limited.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ayyappan |first=V |date=2023-04-15 |title=Production of Tejas LCA gets fillip |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/production-of-tejas-lca-gets-fillip/articleshow/99520799.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-05-03 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

===Operational clearance===
[[File:Tejas at Sulur Air Force Station.jpg|thumb|left|HAL Tejas from [[No. 45 Squadron IAF]] stationed at [[Sulur Air Force Station]].]]
In December 2006, the IAF announced that it would form an "LCA Induction Team" to manage the aircraft's service introduction.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Sharma|first=Ravi|date=2006-12-03|title=IAF team to oversee LCA induction and operation|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/iaf-team-to-oversee-lca-induction-and-operation/article3028492.ece|access-date=2021-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108005636/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/iaf-team-to-oversee-lca-induction-and-operation/article3028492.ece|archive-date=8 January 2016|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The Tejas was awarded initial operational clearance-I (IOC-I) in January 2011.<ref name="hindu_tejas">Prasad, K. V. [http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article1077899.ece "Tejas gets Initial Operational Clearance."] ''The Hindu'', (Chennai, India), 10 January 2011. Retrieved 30 May 2012. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202232600/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article1077899.ece |date=2 February 2014}}</ref> To ease up the process of FOC, an interim IOC-II was issued to Tejas in December 2013. The IOC-II expanded the g-limit, [[angle of attack]] and allowed the aircraft to carry precision guided munitions and close combat missiles. The IOC-II Tejas have an operational radius of {{Convert|400-500|km|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite news|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=8 December 2013|title=Tejas Fires Missile, Clears Final Test; Big Step in Bangalore on December 20|newspaper=The New Indian Express|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/Tejas-Fires-Missile-Clears-Final-Test-Big-Step-in-Bangalore-on-December-20/2013/12/08/article1934339.ece|access-date=20 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131223033405/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bangalore/Tejas-Fires-Missile-Clears-Final-Test-Big-Step-in-Bangalore-on-December-20/2013/12/08/article1934339.ece|archive-date=23 December 2013}}</ref><ref name="thin9143">{{cite news|last=Bhatnagar|first=Gaurav Vivek|date=19 December 2013|title=Tejas all set to get certification for IAF induction|newspaper=The Hindu|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tejas-all-set-to-get-certification-for-iaf-induction/article5479143.ece|url-status=live|access-date=20 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220174030/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tejas-all-set-to-get-certification-for-iaf-induction/article5479143.ece|archive-date=20 December 2013}}</ref> The first squadron, consisting of Tejas in IOC-II configuration, became operational in 2016.<ref name="HinduTejasSqn2">{{Cite news|last=Thomas|first=Wilson|date=2020-05-27|title=IAF operationalises second LCA squadron, inducts first LCA Tejas in FOC standard|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/iaf-operationalises-second-lca-squadron-inducts-first-lca-tejas-in-foc-standard/article31685568.ece|access-date=2020-05-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604121053/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/iaf-operationalises-second-lca-squadron-inducts-first-lca-tejas-in-foc-standard/article31685568.ece|archive-date=4 June 2021|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The [[No. 45 Squadron IAF]] based at [[Sulur Air Force Station]], [[Coimbatore]] was the first to have their MiG-21s replaced by Tejas aircraft at the base.<ref name=":26">{{cite web|last=Rajkumar|first=Mike|date=19 March 2020|title=Deal for 83 Tejas fighters passes bureaucratic hurdle|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/deal-for-83-tejas-fighters-passes-bureaucratic-hurdle/137396.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210118011432/https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/deal-for-83-tejas-fighters-passes-bureaucratic-hurdle/137396.article|archive-date=18 January 2021|access-date=2021-11-02|website=Flight Global|language=en}}</ref>

The FOC campaign began in December 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=5 February 2014|title=Tejas Set to Begin High-altitude Trials|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2014/feb/05/Tejas-Set-to-Begin-High-altitude-Trials-572285.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102082940/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2014/feb/05/Tejas-Set-to-Begin-High-altitude-Trials-572285.html|archive-date=2 November 2021|access-date=2021-11-03|website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> Two critical parameters set by IAF for FOC clearance was expansion of angle of attack from 24 degree in IOC-II to 28 degree in FOC and [[inflight refueling]] capability.<ref name="thin9143"/> In February 2018, as part of the FOC campaign, the Tejas carried out a "hot refuelling" - refuelling with engine running,<ref name=":24" /> which shortens the turnaround time<ref>{{cite web|last=Gady|first=Franz-Stefan|date=28 February 2018|title=India's Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Inches Closer to Final Operational Clearance|url=https://thediplomat.com/2018/02/indias-tejas-light-combat-aircraft-inches-closer-to-final-operational-clearance/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121061012/https://thediplomat.com/2018/02/indias-tejas-light-combat-aircraft-inches-closer-to-final-operational-clearance/|archive-date=21 January 2021|access-date=2021-11-03|website=thediplomat.com|language=en-US}}</ref> by 30% and doubles the sortie rate.<ref name=":27" /> In September 2018, the Tejas successfully completed its mid-air refuelling trials required for the aircraft to obtain its FOC.<ref name=":24" /> In January 2019, HAL received permission from [[CEMILAC]] to start production of the FOC standard Tejas.<ref>{{cite news|last=[[Press Trust of India]]|date=4 January 2019|title=HAL gets nod to produce weaponised version of LCA Tejas|work=The Economic Times|agency=Press Trust of India|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hal-gets-nod-to-produce-weaponised-version-of-lca-tejas/articleshow/67379924.cms|access-date=17 July 2021|archive-date=25 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225225946/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hal-gets-nod-to-produce-weaponised-version-of-lca-tejas/articleshow/67379924.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 20 February 2019, during the Aero India 2019 show, FOC was formally awarded to the Tejas.<ref>{{Cite news|date=2019-02-20|title=Finally, FOC certification for Mark I Tejas|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/finally-foc-certification-for-mark-i-tejas/article26323511.ece|access-date=2021-11-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108000013/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/finally-foc-certification-for-mark-i-tejas/article26323511.ece|archive-date=8 November 2020|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The HAL handed over the FOC certificate to the then Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa at the Yelahanka Air Force base. After the formal ceremoney, ACM Dhanoa stated that Tejas was "ready" and [https://zeenews.india.com/india/lca-tejas-is-finally-battle-ready-behaves-like-a-true-fighter-says-iaf-chief-bs-dhanoa-2182140.html "behaved like a true fighter"]. The second Tejas squadron – No.18 ''Flying Bullets'' was formed at [[Sulur Air Force Station]] on 27 May 2020 with the first four serial production FOC aircraft.<ref name="HinduTejasSqn2"/><ref>{{cite web|last=Siddiqui|first=Huma|date=2020-03-17|title=Wow! Tejas, 1st indigenous Light Combat Aircraft in Final Operational Clearance-standard, takes to skies|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/wow-tejas-1st-indigenous-light-combat-aircraft-in-final-operational-clearance-standard-takes-to-skies/1900829/|access-date=2020-03-17|website=The Financial Express|publisher=[[Indian Express Limited]]|language=en-US|archive-date=17 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200317174304/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/wow-tejas-1st-indigenous-light-combat-aircraft-in-final-operational-clearance-standard-takes-to-skies/1900829/|url-status=live}}</ref>

A full mission simulator (FMS) phase-1 was commissioned at [[Sulur Air Force Station]] on 23 October 2021. Phase 1 of the FMS features training in aircraft handling and full envelope flying. Phase 2 will further augment the training with focus on weapons system and advance sensors onboard Tejas.<ref name="tejas-fms">{{cite web|url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/newsletter-document/DRDO_NL_Jan2022.pdf|page=15|title=INAUGURATION AND CLEARANCE OF FULL MISSION SIMULATOR FOR LCA-MK1 - DRDO Newsletter|publisher=DRDO|date=2022-01-06|access-date=11 January 2022|archive-date=8 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108111405/https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/newsletter-document/DRDO_NL_Jan2022.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Upgrades and further development ===
[[File:HAL Tejas IOC variants of Squadron 45 Flying Daggers doing air manoeuvre.jpg|thumb|Tejas IOC aircraft, each carrying two [[drop tank]]s on inner pylons]]
In May 2015, the [[Comptroller and Auditor General of India]] (CAG) noted some shortcomings in the then-delivered Tejas Mark 1 IOC standard aircraft, which according to the CAG would limit the ability to survive and operation deployment of the aircraft in actual combat.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2015-05-10|title=LCA Mark-I has limited capability: CAG|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/marki-tejas-induction-into-iaf-cag-observations/article7188984.ece|access-date=2021-11-04|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=4 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104062423/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/marki-tejas-induction-into-iaf-cag-observations/article7188984.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> A few of these shortcomings, including lack of [[combat endurance]], were addressed in the Tejas Mark 1 FOC configuration aircraft.<ref name=":24">{{cite web|last=Rajkumar|first=Mike|date=7 July 2018|title=India's Tejas clears in-flight refuelling hurdle|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/indias-tejas-clears-in-flight-refuelling-hurdle/129461.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210603023623/https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/indias-tejas-clears-in-flight-refuelling-hurdle/129461.article|archive-date=3 June 2021|access-date=4 November 2021|website=Flight Global}}</ref> Tejas Mark 1 FOC is modified to perform [[aerial refueling|in-flight refuelling]] from [[Ilyushin Il-78]] and [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI]]. Tejas is also undergoing butt firing trials and air-to-air firing at HAL, [[Nashik]] facility with [[Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-23]].<ref name=":37">{{Cite news|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=2021-12-29|title=Indian Air force clears Tejas Mark 2 design, production in 2023|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/indian-air-force-clears-tejas-mark-2-design-production-in-2023-121122900035_1.html|access-date=2021-12-31|archive-date=31 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211231063733/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/indian-air-force-clears-tejas-mark-2-design-production-in-2023-121122900035_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

The shortcomings, such as the increased weight and reduced speed, would be addressed in the upcoming Tejas Mark 1A aircraft by increasing the use of composites in manufacturing and reducing the supersonic drag by using more aerodynamic pylons. The MK1A will also have AESA radar, a self-protection jammer,<ref name=":25" /> updated avionics and electronic warfare capabilities, among other improvements.<ref>{{cite web|last=Singh|first=Angad|date=2021-01-17|title=Tejas keeps India's capability gap with China under check. It is HAL's game to lose now|url=https://theprint.in/opinion/tejas-keeps-indias-capability-gap-with-china-under-check-it-is-hals-game-to-lose-now/587028/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104075128/https://theprint.in/opinion/tejas-keeps-indias-capability-gap-with-china-under-check-it-is-hals-game-to-lose-now/587028/|archive-date=4 November 2021|access-date=2021-11-04|website=ThePrint|language=en-US}}</ref> The shortcomings identified by CAG that require redesign and structural modification such as increasing internal fuel capacity, are planned to be rectified in the Tejas Mark 2.<ref name=":25">{{cite web|last=Jha|first=Saurav|date=31 January 2021|title=Tejas at the end of the tunnel|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/specials/sunday-spotlight/tejas-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-945482.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711125533/https://www.deccanherald.com/specials/sunday-spotlight/tejas-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-945482.html|archive-date=11 July 2021|access-date=17 July 2021|website=Deccan Herald}}</ref>

An agreement has been signed by the Indian Air Force and the Aeronautical Development Agency to include advanced weaponry and sensors into HAL Tejas. By transferring technical know-how for the smooth integration of weapons and sensors, ADA and the IAF's Software Development Institute (SDI) hope to empower the IAF to carry out integration and flight testing on its own.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vijayan |first=Vipin |date=21 February 2024 |title=Process to equip LCA Tejas with futuristic weapons takes off |url=https://newsable.asianetnews.com/india-defence/process-to-equip-lca-tejas-with-futuristic-weapons-takes-off-s97lb3 |access-date=2024-03-01 |website=Asianet News Network |language=en}}</ref>

On 5 March 2024, the high-altitude testing for On-Board Oxygen Generating System centric Life Support System (OBOGS-ILSS) of Tejas was successfully completed by DRDO. It could be used in [[MiG-29K]] and other aircraft with modifications. LCA PV-3 aircraft were used to test the system under a variety of flight conditions, including high [[g force]] and altitudes of up to {{Convert|50000|ft|km|abbr=on}}. OBOGS oxygen concentrations, demand breathing, 100% oxygen availability, and aerobatic maneuvers at the necessary altitudes for complete functional testing were carried out following [[CEMILAC]] flight approval. All of the parameters have been met by the system which will replace the earlier Liquid Oxygen System (LOX).<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2025-03-05 |title=DRDO conducts high-altitude trial of integrated life support system for Tejas aircraft |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-conducts-high-altitude-trial-of-integrated-life-support-system-for-tejas-aircraft/article69294459.ece |access-date=2025-03-05 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS) {{!}} Defence Research and Development Organisation - DRDO, Ministry of Defence, Government of India |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/board-oxygen-generating-system-obogs |access-date=2025-03-10 |website=www.drdo.gov.in}}</ref>

==== Naval variant ====
[[File:LCA Navy Prototype NP-1.jpg|thumb|LCA Navy prototype NP-1]]

The ''Naval LCA programme'' was commenced in 2003.<ref name=":29">{{cite web|date=11 January 2020|title=LCA does 1st carrier landing, but will Indian Navy ever buy it?|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/01/11/lca-does-1st-carrier-landing-but-will-indian-navy-ever-buy-it.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702234747/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/01/11/lca-does-1st-carrier-landing-but-will-indian-navy-ever-buy-it.html|archive-date=2 July 2021|access-date=2021-11-04|website=The Week|language=en}}</ref> According to ADA, the ''Naval LCA (N-LCA) Programme'' was envisaged to be completed in two phases, under Phase-1 two naval prototypes were developed - the two-seat ''NP-1'' and the single-seat ''NP-2'', based on the Tejas Mark 1 design, to carryout carrier suitability certification and weapons integration. Under Phase 2, two single-seat prototypes were planned to be built, based on the Tejas Mark 2 design, with further design optimisation and integration of the [[General Electric F414|General Electric F414 INS6]] engine.<ref name="auto10">{{cite web|title=ADA LCA Navy Programme|url=https://www.ada.gov.in/ada/navy-mark1-mark2.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510142428/https://www.ada.gov.in/ada/navy-mark1-mark2.html|archive-date=10 May 2021|access-date=4 November 2021|website=[[Aeronautical Development Agency]]}}</ref> The first naval prototype NP-1 was rolled out in July 2010,<ref name=":28" /> and made its first flight on 27 April 2012.<ref name="First flight">Kumar, Chethan. [http://www.deccanherald.com/content/244815/lca-naval-variants-first-flight.html "LCA naval variant's first flight on Friday."] ''Deccan Herald'', 25 April 2012. Retrieved 30 May 2012. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202190045/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/244815/lca-naval-variants-first-flight.html |date=2 February 2014}}</ref> The naval LCA has stronger landing gear to absorb the forces generated during carrier take off and arrested recovery.<ref name=":29"/><ref name=":30">{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2014-12-23|title=Naval LCA makes first flight from ski-jump|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/naval-lca-makes-first-flight-from-skijump/article6717318.ece|access-date=2021-11-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609181958/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/naval-lca-makes-first-flight-from-skijump/article6717318.ece|archive-date=9 June 2021|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

In December 2014, the LCA Navy successfully made its first ski-jump assisted take off from a [[Shore Based Test Facility|SBTF]] at {{ship|INS|Hansa}}. The navy variant has a distinctive flight control law mode which allows hands-free take-off.<ref name=":30"/>

In December 2016, the Indian Navy (IN) opted out of the programme, owing to the long delay and technical reasons – such as inadequate thrust to weight ratio of N-LCA for carrier based combat operations,<ref>{{cite web|last=Bedi|first=Rahul|date=5 December 2016|title=Indian Navy rejects naval version of Tejas LCA, seeks alternative – IHS Jane's 360|url=http://www.janes.com/article/65993/indian-navy-rejects-naval-version-of-tejas-lca-seeks-alternative|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220075020/http://www.janes.com/article/65993/indian-navy-rejects-naval-version-of-tejas-lca-seeks-alternative|archive-date=20 December 2016|access-date=27 January 2017|work=janes.com}}</ref> and issued a fresh RFI for the procurement of 57 multi-role carrier borne fighters.<ref name="janes.com">{{Cite news|last=Jennings|first=Gareth|date=26 January 2017|title=India seeks new naval fighter to replace rejected Tejas LCA|work=IHS Jane's 360|url=http://www.janes.com/article/67252/india-seeks-new-naval-fighter-to-replace-rejected-tejas-lca|url-status=live|access-date=23 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170224131630/http://www.janes.com/article/67252/india-seeks-new-naval-fighter-to-replace-rejected-tejas-lca|archive-date=24 February 2017}}</ref>

Because the technologies developed for the Tejas programme will be carried over to other platforms currently being developed by the ADA, test flying was continued.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kaushik|first1=Krishn|date=5 February 2021|title=Tejas done, focus on three other fighter jets: two for IAF, one Navy|publisher=The Indian Express|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/aero-india-2021-tejas-done-focus-on-three-other-fighter-jets-two-for-iaf-one-navy-7175125/|access-date=5 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205145054/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/aero-india-2021-tejas-done-focus-on-three-other-fighter-jets-two-for-iaf-one-navy-7175125/|archive-date=5 February 2021}}</ref>

In 2019, an LCA navy prototype successfully carried out the first arrested landing at the [[Shore Based Test Facility|SBTF]] in Goa in day time<ref name=":31">{{cite web|date=15 January 2020|title=India's LCA makes arrested landing, as twin-engined fighter planned|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/indias-lca-makes-arrested-landing-as-twin-engined-fighter-planned/136141.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124004216/https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/indias-lca-makes-arrested-landing-as-twin-engined-fighter-planned/136141.article|archive-date=24 January 2021|access-date=2021-11-04|website=Flight Global|language=en}}</ref> and night time.<ref>{{cite web|date=13 November 2019|title=DRDO does it again! Watch first-ever successful night-time landing of Naval version of LCA|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-does-it-again-watch-first-ever-successful-night-time-landing-of-naval-version-of-lca/1763773/|access-date=17 July 2021|website=[[The Financial Express (India)]]|archive-date=9 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210509100556/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-does-it-again-watch-first-ever-successful-night-time-landing-of-naval-version-of-lca/1763773/|url-status=live}}</ref> As of December 2019, the Naval LCA programme completed 209 test flights,<ref name=":31"/> including 50 ski jump take-offs and 28 arrested landings.<ref name=":32" />

[[File:LCA Navy maiden landing on INS Vikramaditya.webm|thumb|Tejas NP-1 landing on {{ship|INS|Vikramaditya}}]]

In January 2020, the naval prototype NP-2 successfully carried out its first [[arrested landing]] and [[Ski-jump (aviation)|ski-jump]] assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier {{ship|INS|Vikramaditya}}.<ref name=":20">{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2020-01-11|title=Naval variant of LCA Tejas successfully lands on carrier|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/naval-variant-of-lca-tejas-successfully-lands-on-carrier/article30541842.ece|access-date=2020-01-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624192656/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/naval-variant-of-lca-tejas-successfully-lands-on-carrier/article30541842.ece|archive-date=24 June 2020|issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name=":31"/>

In July 2020, the DRDO announced that the plan to develop an LCA Mark 2 Navy had been dropped and they were working on a new carrier-borne fighter according to the Indian Navy's ''[[INS Vikrant (2013)#MRCBF|multi-role carrier borne fighter]] requirement'' floated in 2016 to replace the current fleet of MIG-29K/KUB carrier-based fighters.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2020-07-13|title=Navy to get new carrier-based jet by 2032, to replace MiG-29K|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-to-get-new-carrier-based-jet-by-2032-to-replace-mig-29k/article32070823.ece|access-date=2021-11-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112232036/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-to-get-new-carrier-based-jet-by-2032-to-replace-mig-29k/article32070823.ece|archive-date=12 January 2021|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In [[Aero India]] 2021, a new twin engine naval fighter was unveiled, the ''[[HAL TEDBF|Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter]]'' (TEDBF).<ref>{{cite web|last=Jennings|first=Gareth|date=4 February 2021|title=Aero India 2021: Indian TEDBF naval fighter showcased by HAL|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/aero-india-2021-indian-tedbf-naval-fighter-showcased-by-hal|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806144616/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/aero-india-2021-indian-tedbf-naval-fighter-showcased-by-hal|archive-date=6 August 2021|access-date=2021-06-09|website=Janes.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Chandra|first=Atul|date=9 February 2021|title=New Delhi forges ahead with new naval fighter, AMCA|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/new-delhi-forges-ahead-with-new-naval-fighter-amca/142338.article|access-date=2021-06-09|website=Flight Global|language=en|archive-date=4 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604203653/https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/new-delhi-forges-ahead-with-new-naval-fighter-amca/142338.article|url-status=live}}</ref> The experience gained in the N-LCA programme will help in the development of TEDBF.<ref name=":32">{{cite web|last=Siddiqui|first=Huma|date=2 December 2019|title=Light Combat Aircraft for Indian Navy: DRDO updates naval aircraft's progress|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/light-combat-aircraft-for-indian-navy-drdo-updates-naval-aircrafts-progress/1782008/|access-date=17 July 2021|website=[[The Financial Express (India)]]}}</ref>

[[File:LCA Tejas maiden landing onboard INS Vikrant (R11).webm|thumb|LCA Tejas maiden landing onboard {{ship|INS|Vikrant|2013|6}}]]

In February 2023, the naval prototype completed its maiden landing and take-off from the indigenous aircraft carrier {{ship|INS|Vikrant|2013|6}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/in-major-milestone-naval-lca-lands-on-ins-vikrant/article66477098.ece|title=In major milestone, Naval LCA lands on INS Vikrant|work=The Hindu|date=2023-02-06|first=Dinaker|last=Peri|access-date=6 February 2023|archive-date=6 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230206134349/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/in-major-milestone-naval-lca-lands-on-ins-vikrant/article66477098.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Tejas Mark 1A ====
[[File:TejasMark1A.jpg|thumb|left|First Tejas Mark 1A aircraft]]
The Tejas Mark 1A variant has more than 40 improvements over the Mark 1 variant.<ref>{{cite web|last=Bali|first=Pawan|date=2021-01-14|title=Centre clears purchase of 83 Tejas Mk-1A for Indian Air Force|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/140121/centre-clears-purchase-of-83-tejas-mk-1a-for-indian-air-force.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104075633/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/140121/centre-clears-purchase-of-83-tejas-mk-1a-for-indian-air-force.html|archive-date=4 November 2021|access-date=2021-11-04|website=Deccan Chronicle|language=en}}</ref><ref name="auto3" /> Upgraded Mark 1A features a new avionic suite centred on [[EL/M-2052]] AESA Radar and [[Uttam AESA Radar]] developed in-house. [[Defence Avionics Research Establishment|DARE]] Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS), an externally mounted self protection jammer (SPJ) for enhanced survivability, [[Aerial refueling|in-flight refuelling]] capability, Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) developed by [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] (DEBEL) for endurance and an expanded weapon suite consisting of [[Astra (missile)|Astra BVRAAM]] and [[ASRAAM]].<ref name=":25" /><ref name=":26" /> Two ASRAAMs are intended for use on Tejas Mark 1A. The production variant will come equipped with dual-rack pylons with weapon systems integration.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2022-01-09 |title='Light Combat Aircraft MK-1A to take flight in June' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/light-combat-aircraft-mk-1a-to-take-flight-in-june/article38200517.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717081010/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/light-combat-aircraft-mk-1a-to-take-flight-in-june/article38200517.ece |archive-date=17 July 2022 |access-date=2022-07-17 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name=":41" /> HAL will install in-house developed Combined Interrogator and Transponder (CIT) with digital map generator by Mission and Combat Systems R&D Centre which helps transfer the required mission map on pilot display, an upgraded IFF+ from older [[identification friend or foe]] system.<ref name=":41">{{Cite news |last=Linganna |first=Girish |date=4 July 2022 |title=HAL flies Tejas Mk1A Flying Test Bed, superior to PAF JF-17 Block 3 |work=Frontier India |url=https://frontierindia.com/hal-flies-tejas-mk1a-flying-test-bed-superior-to-paf-jf-17-block-3/ |access-date=17 July 2022 |archive-date=17 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717081012/https://frontierindia.com/hal-flies-tejas-mk1a-flying-test-bed-superior-to-paf-jf-17-block-3/ |url-status=live }}</ref> To better accommodate the pilots, cockpit floor is also reshaped.<ref name=":37"/> The upgraded Tejas Mark 1A will have a reduced turnaround time.<ref name="auto3">{{cite web|author=Krishnan M.|first=Anantha|date=6 August 2020|title=Upgraded Tejas fighter, touted as 'real desi game-changer', to fly in 2022-23|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/08/06/upgraded-tejas-jet-touted-as-real-desi-game-changer-to-fly-in-2022-23.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210807175617/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/08/06/upgraded-tejas-jet-touted-as-real-desi-game-changer-to-fly-in-2022-23.html|archive-date=7 August 2021|access-date=21 July 2021|website=The Week}}</ref> Tejas Mark 1A will use indigenously developed Angad electronic warfare suite and DRDO Advanced Self Protection Jammer pod.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Negi |first=Manjeet |date=16 October 2023 |title=India-made light combat aircraft Mark 1A to be equipped with indigenous systems |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/iaf-mark-1a-equipped-indigenous-systems-uttam-angad-radar-warfare-suite-air-force-2449417-2023-10-16 |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":47">{{Cite news |date=2024-03-28 |title=Tejas MK-1A completes maiden flight, first delivery soon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/tejas-mk-1a-completes-maiden-flight-first-delivery-soon/articleshow/108846208.cms |access-date=2024-03-28 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=EW Suite for LCA Mk1A |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/inline-files/WriteupEW_SuiteLCA_Mk1A27062023.pdf |access-date=28 March 2024 |publisher=DRDO Policy and Procedures for Transfer of Technology}}</ref>

[[Bharat Electronics|BEL]] will supply 20 types of locally developed critical avionics and upgrades such as Digital Flight Control Computers from [[Aeronautical Development Agency|ADA]], Air Data Computer from [[DRDO]], Weapon Computers from [[Aeronautical Development Establishment|ADE]], Radar Warning Receiver from Combat Aircraft Systems Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC) and [[Head-up display]] from [[Central Scientific Instruments Organisation]] (CSIO) from 2023 to 2028 for ₹2,400 crore.<ref>{{Cite news  |date=2021-12-16 |title=BEL receives ₹2,400 crore order from HAL |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/bel-receives-2400-crore-order-from-hal/article37970098.ece |access-date=2022-07-06 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=6 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706062128/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/bel-receives-2400-crore-order-from-hal/article37970098.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>

In order to produce the BMI Engine Bay Door for the Tejas Mark 1A, HAL and [[National Aerospace Laboratories]] inked a [[technology transfer]] agreement. For the engine bay door, where it must survive a service temperature of roughly 200&nbsp;°C, NAL Advanced Composites Division is creating a manufacturing process technique that uses Carbon-BMI Prepreg to create co-cured composite structures that are very temperature resistant.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-08 |title=HAL signs ToT with CSIR-NAL for BMI Engine Bay Door for Series Production of LCA-Tejas Mk1A |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hal-signs-tot-with-csir-nal-for-bmi-engine-bay-door-for-series-production-of-lca-tejas-mk1a/articleshow/105074596.cms |access-date=2023-11-18 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> On 28 March 2024, Tejas Mark 1A, equipped with the first set of Carbon-BMI Engine Bay Door assembly, successfully completed the inaugural flight from HAL facility.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-22 |title=HAL, NAL sign tech transfer pact for Tejas engine day door production |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/hal-nal-sign-tech-transfer-pact-for-tejas-engine-day-door-production-12694231.html |access-date=2024-04-22 |website=Moneycontrol |language=en}}</ref>

On 19 April 2024, [[Aeronautical Development Establishment|ADA]] delivered the first batch of Secondary Flight Control of Tejas Mk 1A which consists of an indigenously designed [[Leading-edge slat|Leading Edge Slats]] and Airbrake Control Module. These flight control systems features "state-of-the-art Servo-Valve based electro-hydraulic servo actuators and control modules." These development was the result of the collaboration of ADA, [[Research Centre Imarat]] (RCI) and [[Ministry of Heavy Industries#Autonomous Bodies|Central Manufacturing Technology Institute]] (CMTI). The technology is ready to be integrated with production variants of Tejas Mk 1A as it successfully completed flight trials. These are being produced at Accessories Division, HAL, [[Lucknow]].<ref name=":48" /><ref name=":49">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2024-04-19 |title=DRDO takes another major step towards self-reliance in aeronautical technologies |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/drdo-takes-another-major-step-towards-self-reliance-in-aeronautical-technologies-1503292023.html |access-date=2024-04-20 |website=The Statesman |language=en}}</ref> On 30th May 2025, the first centre fuselage assembly for the Tejas Mk1A was handed over to HAL by subcontractor VEM Technologies in [[Hyderabad]].<ref>https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/lca-tejas-mk-1a-hal-gets-first-centre-fuselage-delivery-13079082.html/amp {{Bare URL inline|date=May 2025}}</ref>

'''Milestones'''

* According to HAL Chairman and Director R Madhavan, the design activity of Tejas Mark 1A is moving ahead, and the testing of subsystems will be completed by 2021. The taxi trials will commence in the first half of 2022, and the first flight of Mark 1A prototype will happen in the second half of 2022.<ref name="iaf-to-get-1st-tejas">{{cite web |date=23 October 2022 |title=IAF to get 1st Tejas Mk1A in February 2024 : HAL gets enquiries for LCH Prachand from various countries including Argentina & Egypt |url=https://theigmp.org/iaf-to-get-1st-tejas-mk1a-in-february-2024-hal-gets-enquiries-for-lch-prachand-from-various-countries-including-argentina-egypt/ |access-date=24 October 2022 |website=IgMp}}</ref>
* On 20 May 2022, the Tejas Mark 1A prototype completed its first flight.<ref>{{cite web |date=2022-08-01 |title=Annual Report 2022 - HAL |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/Finance/AnnualReport_2022.pdf |access-date=2022-08-01 |publisher=HAL |archive-date=28 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230128093718/https://www.hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/Finance/AnnualReport_2022.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author=<!--staff writer-->|publisher=HAL |date=17 May 2023 |title=HAL ANALYST MEET-2023 |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/DMS/Conferencecall_17052023_presentation.pdf }}</ref> HAL intends to obtain a certificate from [[Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification]] (CEMILAC) within 30 months before this version enters mass production. 
* On 28 March 2024, the first production series Mark 1A aircraft (LA 5033) conducted its inaugural flight which lasted for 18 minutes. The aircraft will undergo more testing before being officially transferred to the IAF.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-28 |title='Airborne for 15 minutes': HAL successfully completes first flight of Made in India LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/airborne-for-15-minutes-hal-successfully-completes-first-flight-of-made-in-india-lca-mark-1a-fighter-aircraft-13753666.html |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Firstpost |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chethan |date=2024-03-28 |title=Tejas MK-1A completes maiden flight, first delivery soon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/tejas-mk-1a-completes-maiden-flight-first-delivery-soon/articleshow/108846208.cms |access-date=2024-03-29 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
* On March 12, 2025, [[Astra (missile)#Variants|Astra Mk-1]] successfully demonstrated a direct hit on a flying target from Tejas. This was a significant test for Mark 1A induction.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 March 2025 |title=Tejas LCA AF MK1 test-fires Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2111068 |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]] |agency=Ministry of Defence, Government of India}}</ref>

==== Tejas Mark 2 ====
{{Main|HAL Tejas Mk2}}
[[File:Tejas MKII.jpg|thumb|left|Tejas MK2 design]]
The HAL Tejas design has been further developed into the Tejas Mark 2, incorporating a more powerful [[General Electric F414|General Electric F414 INS6]] engine, [[Canard (aeronautics)|canards]] and other design changes. The Tejas Mark 2, which is expected to be rolled out in 2025, will have an increased payload carrying capacity and internal fuel capacity, more external hardpoints, improved combat range, a completely redesigned cockpit, and an integrated [[infrared search and track]] (IRST) system, in addition to the AESA radar.<ref>{{cite web|last=Waldron|first=Greg|date=20 February 2019|title=AERO INDIA: Tejas Mk2 gets canards, big payload boost|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/aero-india-tejas-mk2-gets-canards-big-payload-boost/131469.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806073602/https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/aero-india-tejas-mk2-gets-canards-big-payload-boost/131469.article|archive-date=6 August 2020|access-date=2021-11-04|website=Flight Global|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":27">{{cite web|last=Rajkumar|first=Mike|date=8 February 2019|title=ANALYSIS: Tejas regaining its lustre|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/analysis/analysis-tejas-regaining-its-lustre/131059.article|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919193801/https://www.flightglobal.com/analysis/analysis-tejas-regaining-its-lustre/131059.article|archive-date=19 September 2020|access-date=2021-11-04|website=Flight Global|language=en}}</ref> The [[Defence Institute of Advanced Technology]] (DIAT) is developing aircraft [[health and usage monitoring systems]] (HUMS) to integrate the various sensors on board the Tejas Mark 2.<ref>{{cite web|date=13 August 2011|title=DIAT system soon to monitor in-flight health of Tejas Mk-II - Indian Express|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/diat-system-soon-to-monitor-inflight-health-of-tejas-mkii/831436/|url-status=live|access-date=2021-11-04|website=[[The Indian Express]]|archive-date=4 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104080140/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/diat-system-soon-to-monitor-inflight-health-of-tejas-mkii/831436/}}</ref> The first flight of Tejas Mark 2 is expected to be in late 2025 or early 2026.<ref name="FG-11022025">{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/maiden-flight-approaching-for-indias-light-combat-aircraft-mk2-fighter/161747.article |title=Maiden flight approaching for India's Light Combat Aircraft Mk2 fighter |author=Mike Rajkumar |date=11 February 2025 |website= Flight Global |access-date=10 March 2025}}</ref>

===Program costs===

====Development costs====
* LCA Programme - {{INRConvert|9063.96|c|year=2020}} (up to March 2020)<ref name=":33">{{Cite news|date=2020-03-04|title=₹11,096 cr. spent on LCA and Kaveri engine projects so far, says govt.|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/11096-cr-spent-on-lca-and-kaveri-engine-projects-so-far-says-govt/article30982412.ece|access-date=2021-11-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200624234703/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/11096-cr-spent-on-lca-and-kaveri-engine-projects-so-far-says-govt/article30982412.ece|archive-date=24 June 2020|issn=0971-751X|quote=Of the specified amount, ₹9063.96 crore was spent on LCA and ₹2032 crore on the Kaveri Engine.}}</ref>
* Kaveri engine programme - {{INRConvert|2032|c|year=2020}}<ref name=":33"/>
* {{INRConvert|1202|c|year=2021}} additional design and development (Jan 2021)<ref>{{cite web|last=Singh|first=Mayank|date=13 January 2021|title=Biggest indigenous procurement, CCS approves procurement of 83 HAL manufactured fighters costing Rs 45,000 crore|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/jan/13/govt-clears-rs-48000-crore-deal-to-buy-83-tejas-fighters-for-iaf-2249687.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717142017/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/jan/13/govt-clears-rs-48000-crore-deal-to-buy-83-tejas-fighters-for-iaf-2249687.html|archive-date=17 July 2021|access-date=2021-07-17|website=The New Indian Express|quote=Cabinet...approved procurement of 73 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter {{sic|aircrafts|nolink=y}} and 10 LCA Tejas Mk-1 Trainer {{sic|aircrafts|nolink=y}} at the cost of Rs. 45,696 crore along with Design and Development of Infrastructure sanctions worth Rs.1,202 crore.}}</ref>

====Flyaway costs====
* {{INRConvert|146.2|c|year=2014}} for IOC Mark 1 (2014)<ref>{{cite news|last1=Shukla|first1=Ajai|date=11 January 2014|title=HAL pegs price of Tejas fighter at Rs 162 crore|work=Business Standard|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/hal-pegs-price-of-tejas-fighter-at-rs-162-crore-114011100829_1.html|access-date=17 July 2021|archive-date=21 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121221316/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/hal-pegs-price-of-tejas-fighter-at-rs-162-crore-114011100829_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="BS25Jan21">{{cite news |title=Several nations have shown interest in buying Tejas aircraft: HAL chairman |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/several-nations-have-shown-interest-in-buying-tejas-aircraft-hal-chairman-121012500056_1.html|author=<!--staff writer-->|publisher=Press Trust of India |date=25 January 2021|via=Business Standard|archive-url= https://archive.today/20210507202233/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/several-nations-have-shown-interest-in-buying-tejas-aircraft-hal-chairman-121012500056_1.html|archive-date= 7 May 2021 |url-status= live}}</ref>
* {{INRConvert|156|c|year=2010}} for FOC Mark 1 (2010)<ref name="BS25Jan21"/>
* {{INRConvert|303|c|year=2021}} for Mark 1A and {{INRConvert|309|c|year=2021}} for export variant (2021)<ref>{{cite news|author=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=18 January 2020|title=At $43 million each, the Tejas Mark 1A competes in export market|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/at-43-mn-each-hindustan-aeronautics-tejas-mark-1a-seeks-export-market-121011800019_1.html|access-date=17 July 2021|website=[[Business Standard]]|archive-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512232508/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/at-43-mn-each-hindustan-aeronautics-tejas-mark-1a-seeks-export-market-121011800019_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/videos/business/expect-to-deliver-first-tejas-mark-1a-aircraft-in-36-months-from-signing-contract-hal-8036141.htm |title=Expect to deliver first Tejas Mark-1A aircraft in 36 months from signing contract: HAL |publisher=CNBC TV18 |date=18 January 2020 |access-date=24 January 2021 |archive-date=30 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130034822/https://www.cnbctv18.com/videos/business/expect-to-deliver-first-tejas-mark-1a-aircraft-in-36-months-from-signing-contract-hal-8036141.htm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Philip|first1=Snehesh Alex|date=4 February 2021|title=India looking at Tejas exports at Rs 309 crore per aircraft, HAL chairman says|work=The Print|url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-looking-at-tejas-exports-at-rs-309-crore-per-aircraft-hal-chairman-says/598642/|access-date=27 February 2021|archive-date=3 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303211110/https://theprint.in/defence/india-looking-at-tejas-exports-at-rs-309-crore-per-aircraft-hal-chairman-says/598642/|url-status=live}}</ref> <!-- 
====Operational costs==== -->