Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially signed a significant contract with the Ministry of Defence worth ₹62,370 crore for the supply of 97 Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A to the Indian Air Force. The agreement, finalized in New Delhi under the Buy (India-IDDM) category, covers 68 fighter jets and 29 twin-seater variants along with associated equipment.
The LCA Mk1A represents a major leap in India’s indigenous fighter aircraft program. Equipped with the UTTAM AESA radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite and advanced control actuators, the aircraft offers enhanced combat capability. With more than 64 percent indigenous content and 67 newly developed indigenous items, the project underlines India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
MoD signed a contract with @HALHQBLR for 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft (68 Fighters & 29 Twin Seaters) with associated equipment for the IAF at Rs 62,370 Cr (excl. taxes) under Buy (India-IDDM), today in New Delhi. The advanced LCA Mk1A integrates UTTAM AESA #Radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach &… pic.twitter.com/Bwm8WlsITq
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) September 25, 2025
Supported by 105 domestic suppliers, the program is expected to create close to 11,750 jobs annually over the next six years. Deliveries of the aircraft will commence from 2027–28, significantly boosting the operational strength of the Indian Air Force while advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. This landmark deal not only reinforces India’s defence preparedness but also establishes HAL’s pivotal role in the country’s aerospace and defence ecosystem.
