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Indian Air Force (IAF) is all set to get a major ‘Make in India’ boost with the government has given its nod for the acquisition of 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft. The final clearance for procuring 97 LCA Mark 1A fighters came during a high-level meetinf today, defence sources told ANI.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), under the Prime Minister's leadership, sanctioned the acquisition deal worth approximately Rs 66,500 crore for 97 advanced Tejas Mark-1A aircraft.
This marks the second procurement of LCA Mark 1A fighters, following the government's previous order of 83 aircraft valued at approximately Rs 48,000 crore a few years ago, the report said.
IAF to get more LCA Mark 1A fighters
The initiative will assist the IAF in substituting its MiG-21 fleet, which the government plans to retire in the coming weeks, sources indicated. This will pave way for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to commence production, according to defence sources who spoke to ANI.
The Indian Air Force's intention to procure 97 additional LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft was initially disclosed by the then Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari whilst in Spain, where he informed ANI about substantial plans to expand indigenous fighter aircraft procurement.
The LCA Mark 1A variant features superior avionics and radar systems compared to the initial batch of 40 LCAs being delivered to the Air Force, the report said.
The upgraded LCA Mark1A aircraft will incorporate ‘Make in India’ components, making it over 65% indigenous.
HAL is also anticipated to secure contracts for over 200 LCA Mark 2 aircraft, the ANI report said.
The domestic fighter aircraft initiative is poised to significantly advance self-reliance in defence manufacturing. This programme will generate substantial opportunities for defence-focused small and medium enterprises throughout the nation.
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