Tejas Fighter Jet Issues: HAL Faces Questions as LCA Returns to Skies

India’s indigenous fighter jet, the HAL Tejas, is set to return to operations after being grounded for nearly two months.

The pause followed a February 2026 incident, where a Tejas aircraft made a hard landing, forcing the pilot to eject and resulting in significant damage.

Recent Incidents Raise Safety Concerns

The February incident is not isolated. The Tejas programme has faced multiple setbacks:

• 2026: Hard landing leading to aircraft damage
• 2025: Crash during Dubai Air Show
• 2024: Crash linked to engine fuel feed issues

These repeated incidents have raised concerns about reliability and operational readiness.

A Project Marked by Delays and Cost Overruns

The Tejas programme, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been in development for decades.

Key challenges include:

• Long development timelines
• Rising project costs
• Delays in delivery schedules

Critics argue that despite heavy investment, the aircraft has not fully met expectations.

Dependency on Foreign Technology

One of the major limitations of the Tejas project has been:

• Dependence on imported engines
• Delays in developing the indigenous Kaveri engine

This reliance has slowed progress and affected India’s goal of defence self-reliance.

Impact on Indian Air Force

The delays in Tejas deliveries have affected the Indian Air Force (IAF):

• Shrinking number of fighter squadrons
• Increased pressure on ageing aircraft
• Urgent need for modern replacements

The Tejas was expected to bridge this gap, but delays have complicated the situation.

Is Tejas a Failure or a Work in Progress?

While critics question its effectiveness, experts highlight:

Positive Aspects

• Indigenous design and manufacturing
• Modern avionics and capabilities
• Strategic importance for defence autonomy

Concerns

• Reliability issues
• Delayed timelines
• Operational limitations

What Lies Ahead for Tejas Programme

With the aircraft returning to the skies, focus will be on:

• Improving safety and reliability
• Accelerating production of Tejas Mk1A
• Reducing dependency on foreign components

A Critical Moment for India’s Defence Ambitions

The Tejas programme is more than just a fighter jet—it represents India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Its success or failure will shape the future of indigenous defence projects.