As part of his visit, the prime minister was scheduled to review HAL’s manufacturing facility, including the production site for Tejas jets. Modi has been a strong advocate for the indigenous production of defense products, showcasing his government’s efforts to boost manufacturing in India and promote exports. Notably, several countries have expressed interest in purchasing the Tejas, a light combat aircraft.

During Modi’s state visit to the US, a pact between HAL and US defense giant GE Aerospace was signed to jointly produce engines for the Mk-II-Tejas. The Modi government has made significant strides in enhancing defense preparedness and indigenization, with a focus on the Tejas aircraft, according to defense sources.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first version of the Tejas aircraft in 2016, and currently, two squadrons (45 Squadron and 18 Squadron) are fully operational with LCA Tejas. A substantial order worth ₹36,468 crore for the delivery of 83 LCA Mk 1A aircraft has been placed with HAL under the Modi government, with deliveries expected to commence by February 2024.

Additionally, over ₹9,000 crore have been allocated for the development of LCA Mk 2, an updated and more lethal version of the Tejas. To further promote indigenization, including of the aircraft engine, Transfer of Technology for manufacturing the GE engine in India was negotiated with GE during the prime minister’s visit to the US in June 2023.

In April, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that India’s defense exports reached an all-time high of ₹15,920 crore in the fiscal year 2022-2023, marking a significant achievement for the country. The prime minister’s sortie on the Tejas reflects the government’s commitment to bolstering indigenous capabilities and promoting self-reliance in defense production.

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