India Signs $7 Billion Deal for 97 Tejas Fighter Jets
India has finalized a $7 billion contract to buy 97 Tejas fighter jets. These jets are designed and built in India. The deal comes as the Indian Air Force (IAF) retires its old MiG-21 fleet, which served for decades. The MiGs earned the nickname “flying coffin” due to 400 crashes and 200 pilot deaths.
The order includes 68 single-seat and 29 twin-seat Tejas Mk-1A jets. The upgraded jets are made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Over 100 Indian companies contributed. The aircraft have more than 64 percent indigenous content. Deliveries will begin in 2027 and continue for six years. These jets will strengthen India’s air combat power and reduce reliance on foreign aircraft.
India faces security challenges, especially along the Pakistan border. A recent four-day clash with Pakistan, the worst since 1999, showed the need for modern fighter jets. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “The Tejas jets will be the mainstay of the Indian Air Force. They show confidence in India’s homegrown defense technology.”
The retirement of the MiG-21 marks the end of a long era. India will hold a flypast ceremony in Chandigarh for the 36 jets retiring. The MiGs served since the 1960s. Upgrades extended their life, but the Tejas jets will now provide a modern and safe backbone for the IAF.
India is also expanding its defense industry. The country purchased 26 Rafale fighter jets from France, joining 36 already in service. India is working with French companies to produce fighter jet engines domestically. The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) prototype is under development. India also built its first domestic aircraft carrier and launched modern warships and submarines. Recently, it tested the Agni-Prime long-range missile with a 2,000-kilometer range.
These steps show India’s push for self-reliance in defense. The Tejas Mk-1A jets, along with new missiles, Rafales, and AMCA aircraft, strengthen regional security. They also boost domestic defense production and India’s technological capabilities.
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