India begins flying LCA Mk1A, buys engines for HTT-40
A prototype of HAL’s Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A is seen here performing a test flight in India. (Photo: HAL)
HAL has begun flight testing of the Tejas light fighter, and has ordered turboprop engines for its HTT-40 trainer.
India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has commenced flight trials of the upgraded Mk1A variant of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which are scheduled for completion by early 2024.
Thereafter, HAL will begin the series manufacture of 83 Mk1As, including ten dual-seat trainers, which the Indian Air Force (IAF) ordered for INR456.96 billion ($5.72 billion) in February 2021.
The single-engine Mk1A incorporates four major capability improvements over the basic Mk1 model, of which the IAF has inducted nearly 40 in two squadrons so far.
Modifications include an AESA radar, EW system with software-defined radios, air-to-air refuelling capability and the ability to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon]()
World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon
L3Harris has completed the production candidate software load for its Viper Shield airborne electronic warfare system and is conducting sea trials with its VAMPIRE counter-drone system.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Airbus-RSAF H225M teaming tests point to future scalability]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Airbus-RSAF H225M teaming tests point to future scalability
The tests between a Republic of Singapore Air Force H225M and Airbus Flexrotor uncrewed aerial system were designed to allow the crew to receive and process real-time data from the UAS while maintaining direct command and control.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Saab eyes “share” in future fighter market, targets 2027 CCA demo flight]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Saab eyes “share” in future fighter market, targets 2027 CCA demo flight
The Swedish government is expected to make a decision on the next steps of the Future Fighter System Concept programme by 2030, with the current second phase focusing on technology knowledge expansion and demonstration flights.
-
![Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities
In the wake of its 1,842% year-on-year revenue increase in Q4 2025, Red Cat sees mass opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region as the company eyes an ongoing production increase and market growth.
