HAL assures delivery of LCA Tejas to Indian Air Force

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which manufactures the Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas,' provided assurance on Tuesday regarding the resolution of technical difficulties and imminent delivery to the Indian Air Force, following reported concerns from IAF chief AP Singh. HAL Chairman and Managing Director D K Sunil stated, "the delay is not simply attributable to just I would say laziness on part of the industry."

"There have been technical issues which have got sorted out. The concern of the Air Chief is understandable," he informed reporters at the Aero India 2025 event.

He confirmed that discussions have occurred at various levels, and HAL, a central PSU, would commence aircraft delivery shortly.

He elaborated, "We have now promised that we will have all the structures ready. We have conveyed this. We have had multiple meetings at different levels. We have conveyed this. We are building this. And once the engines are available, this will start rolling out. I think the concern is well understood. There is no doubt on that and as a team, all of us are focused. We will start delivering the aircraft."

These statements were issued in response to reports indicating that Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal AP Singh had expressed concerns regarding the alleged delay in Tejas delivery to the IAF.