Updated: 5th September 2025
As someone who has followed India’s defence programmes for years, I see the Tejas Mk2 Prototype as far more than just another fighter jet. It represents a shift in how India approaches air power, sending a clear signal that the nation will no longer depend entirely on foreign suppliers to defend its skies.
On 13th August 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director Dr. DK Sunil confirmed that the Tejas Mk2 Prototype had officially entered the prototyping stage. The design phase is complete, structural assembly has begun, and for the first time, India’s vision for this next-generation combat aircraft is being transformed into a physical reality.
Tejas Mk-2 Enters Prototyping Phase – Confirmed on 13th August 2025
On 13th August 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director Dr. DK Sunil confirmed that the Tejas Mk-2 had officially moved into the prototyping stage. The design phase is now complete, and structural assembly has begun. For the first time, India’s vision for this advanced combat aircraft is being translated from engineering blueprints into a physical reality.
The airframe is expected to be ready by Q1 2026, with the rollout targeted for April 2026 or later, depending on integration challenges. The first flight is planned for late 2026 or early 2027, following extensive ground trials.
Also Read: 97 additional Tejas Mk1A jets approved – What it means for the IAF
Why the IAF Needs the Tejas Mk-2 to Replace Ageing Fleets
Lessons from Tejas Mk-1 and Mk-1A
The Tejas Mk-1 and Mk-1A demonstrated that India could design and manufacture a capable frontline fighter. These aircraft proved their worth in service, but the IAF’s operational demands have grown. Regional security challenges, particularly from China’s J-10C and Pakistan’s JF-17 Block III, require a platform with a longer range, greater payload capacity, and more advanced sensors.
Replacing Legacy Aircraft
The IAF’s Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 fleets are nearing the end of their operational lives. Without a capable successor, India risks losing valuable mission flexibility. The Mk-2 is intended to replace these aircraft, consolidating three roles into one platform while reducing maintenance costs and streamlining pilot training.
CCS Approval and Strategic Goals
In September 2022, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the Tejas Mk-2 programme. The goal was ambitious but clear: produce a fighter that can match or exceed platforms like the Gripen E and Rafale, while achieving a high degree of indigenous content and cost efficiency.
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Tejas Mk-1A vs Mk-2 – Key Differences
| Feature | Tejas Mk-1A | Tejas Mk-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Thrust | 84 kN (GE F404) | 98 kN (GE F414-INS6) |
| Max Payload | 3.5 tonnes | 6.5 tonnes |
| Range | ~1,850 km | ~2,500 km |
| Airframe | Tailless delta | Canard-delta |
| Radar | AESA (imported) | Uttam AESA (indigenous) |
| Indigenous Content | ~60% | 70%+ (target 85–90%) |
The Mk-2 is a complete redesign, incorporating lessons learned from earlier models. The addition of close-coupled canards, a larger fuselage, and refined aerodynamics improves agility, stability, and weapons-carrying capability.
Power, Sensors, and Survivability
Engine Performance
The GE F414-INS6 turbofan delivers 98 kN of thrust, enabling the Mk-2 to carry heavier weapons loads over greater distances. This thrust advantage also improves climb rate and manoeuvrability, even with full payload.
Advanced Sensor Suite
- Uttam AESA Radar (GaN-based) for superior detection and tracking.
- Indigenous IRST (Infrared Search and Track) for passive enemy detection.
- Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) for enhanced threat awareness.
Electronic Warfare Capabilities
The Mk-2 will carry indigenous jammers, towed decoys, and advanced countermeasure dispensers, ensuring operational effectiveness in contested environments.
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Pilot-Centric Design and Weapons Capability
Modern Cockpit and Controls
The Tejas Mk-2 cockpit is built around the pilot, featuring:
- Panoramic multi-function displays (MFDS) for better situational awareness.
- HOTAS controls (Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick) for quick combat manoeuvres.
- Quadruplex digital fly-by-wire system capable of automatic recovery from unsafe flight conditions.
These features reduce pilot workload and improve mission efficiency, especially during complex, high-stress operations.
Weapons Integration
The Mk-2 will support a wide weapons portfolio, including:
- Astra Mk-2 BVRAAM (Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile)
- BrahMos-NG for precision strike
- Precision-guided munitions (PGMs)
- Future hypersonic missile systems
- CATS Warrior loyal wingman drone for unmanned teaming
This ensures the Mk-2 is ready for both current and future combat scenarios.
Related: CATS Warrior Drone – Loyal Wingman for Mk2 and AMCA
Regional Air Power Balance
Against JF-17 Block III
The Tejas Mk-2 will outclass the JF-17 Block III in:
- Radar range
- Weapons payload
- Operational range
- Survivability
Pakistan’s JF-17 uses a Chinese KLJ-7A AESA radar, but it lags behind the Uttam AESA in detection range and electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM).
Challenging China’s J-10C
China’s J-10C is a capable 4.5-generation fighter, but the Mk-2’s combination of GE F414 thrust, Uttam AESA, and indigenous EW systems will allow it to compete on equal terms while costing less to operate.
Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Indigenous Content
Final assembly will take place at HAL Bengaluru, with major structural components produced at HAL Nashik.
A network of private Indian defence firms will supply:
- Composite structures
- Avionics
- Subsystems
DRDO laboratories will provide radar systems, electronic warfare gear, and flight control software.
This distributed manufacturing model strengthens supply chain resilience and supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat goals.
Export Potential: Egypt, Argentina, Malaysia, and More
- Egypt – May view the Mk-2 as a lower-cost alternative to the Rafale.
- Argentina – Benefits from no UK-linked component restrictions, unlike other Western jets.
- Malaysia – Already evaluated the Tejas Mk-1A and could adopt the Mk-2 for tropical performance.
Exports could generate revenue, boost India’s defence diplomacy, and deepen military partnerships.
International interest in the Tejas Mk2 Prototype has already surfaced, with nations such as Egypt, Argentina, and Malaysia evaluating it as a cost-effective yet advanced combat aircraft for their air forces.
Development Roadmap – 2025 to 2030
Update – September 2025:
While the initial roadmap targeted a first flight by late 2026 or early 2027, recent updates from HAL now indicate a delay, with the first flight likely in mid-to-late 2027. Series production is expected to commence only by 2031–32, with full squadron induction by 2032–33. These shifts have triggered growing concerns about whether the Tejas Mk2 can remain strategically relevant in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|
| Nov–Dec 2025 | Prototype rollout |
| Q1 2026 | Ground testing begins |
| Mid–Late 2027 | First flight (updated) |
| 2027–2030 | Flight test campaign |
| 2031–32 | Series production begins (revised projection) |
| 2032–33 | First six squadrons inducted (expected) |
Can Tejas Mk2 Stay Relevant Amid the Delays?
While the Mk2 remains a significant leap in capability, this delay extends the operational gap left by ageing Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 fighters. Regional rivals are progressing rapidly, China is accelerating work on sixth-generation jets, and Pakistan is upgrading its JF-17 Block III fleet.
For Tejas Mk2 to stay competitive, HAL and DRDO must:
- Compress the flight testing phase without compromising safety
- Streamline certification timelines
- Fast-track production readiness
India–US tensions have escalated over tariffs and diplomatic friction. There is growing concern that the GE F414 engine deal for Tejas Mk2 may face delays, impacting technology transfer and slowing India’s path to defence self-reliance.
The success of the Mk2 programme will now hinge not just on what it delivers, but when it delivers.
Future Upgrades: Directed-Energy Weapons, AI, and Naval Variant
The Mk-2’s open architecture allows future enhancements, such as:
- Directed-energy weapons for anti-drone and missile defence
- AI-assisted targeting and mission planning
- Naval carrier-based variant for INS Vikrant-class operations
Defence Analyst’s Perspective
The Tejas Mk2 is more than just a fighter jet; it is a symbol of India’s self-reliance in combat aviation. Although the first flight delay to 2027 is a setback, the programme still holds critical strategic value.
To stay competitive, HAL and DRDO must accelerate flight trials, streamline certification, and maintain production readiness. If executed on the revised schedule, the Mk2 will strengthen IAF capabilities, reduce foreign dependence, and pave the way for AMCA.
India is no longer waiting to buy capability; it is building it.