Defence Ministry Considers Penalties On HAL Over Tejas Mk1A Delays

Published 8 June 2026 · india

Defence Ministry Considers Penalties On HAL Over Tejas Mk1A Delays Reported By, Last Updated: June 08, 2026, 18:19 IST The issue was reviewed once again

Defence Ministry Considers Penalties On HAL Over Tejas Mk1A Delays Reported By, Last Updated: June 08, 2026, 18:19 IST The issue was reviewed once again during a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday. HAL was yet to respond at the time of publishing the report Rapid Read Defence Minister Rajnath Singh The Ministry of Defence is considering imposing penalties on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) over continued delays in the delivery of Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft, defence sources have said. The issue was reviewed once again during a meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday, amid growing concerns over delays in one of India’s most important indigenous military aviation programmes. The Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded version of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft currently in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The IAF already operates around 40 Tejas fighters and has placed two separate orders—one for 83 Tejas Mk1A aircraft and another for 97 aircraft. Despite multiple assurances and revised timelines from HAL, deliveries have yet to commence. Defence sources said six GE F404 engines have already reached HAL, while nearly 18 Tejas Mk1A airframes are understood to be ready on the production line. However, not a single Tejas Mk1A has been delivered to the Indian Air Force so far. The delays have emerged as a major concern for the IAF, which continues to grapple with a shortage of fighter squadrons even as efforts are underway to accelerate the induction of indigenous military platforms. Sources indicated that the government is closely monitoring the programme and examining options to ensure adherence to delivery commitments, including the possibility of imposing financial penalties for missed timelines.

A review was planned after HAL stated that multiple Mk1A airframes were ready, but several certifications and acceptance requirements remained pending. Sources indicated that the outcome of the review would determine whether the IAF accepts the initial aircraft deliveries or insists on the completion of all mandatory requirements before induction. HAL was approached for its response on delayed deliveries and progress. However, the company had not responded to queries till the time this article was published. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Akash Sharma Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital.