After IAF Chief’s Public Dressing Down, HAL Blames Technical Issues for Tejas Delay

Two days after a public dressing down from Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh over the delay in delivering Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has defended itself, citing technical challenges rather than inefficiency as the cause. The state-owned aerospace company assured that deliveries will begin soon.

In a video that spread rapidly across social media, the IAF Chief was seen admonishing HAL officials during the Aero India Show in Bengaluru. Seated inside the Hindustan Jet Trainer (HJT-36), he expressed his dissatisfaction, stating, "I am just not confident in the company at this moment," and criticised the organisation's apparent lack of urgency. "We are just not in mission mode... it will happen."

His pointed remarks came as the Air Force continues to await the 83 Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), ordered in 2021, which are vital for bolstering its fleet. Furthermore, HAL is yet to fulfil the delivery of four Tejas Mk1 jets from a 2010 order.

HAL Defends Delay After Scathing Rebuke

In response to the IAF Chief's strong comments, HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil acknowledged the delays but clarified that they have arisen from technical difficulties. "The concerns of the Air Chief are understandable," Sunil stated. "The delay is not due to a lack of diligence; there were technical hurdles, but these have now been resolved."

He assured that one aircraft from HAL's Nasik facility and two from Bengaluru will be delivered by the end of this year. The entire order of 83 LCA Mk1A jets is expected to be completed within the next three and a half years.

"We have committed to having all structures ready. We have communicated this in several meetings at various levels. Once the engines are available, production will proceed smoothly. The concerns have been acknowledged, and as a team, we are fully committed to delivering the aircraft," Sunil informed.

Sunil also disclosed that 12 GE-404 engines from the United States will arrive this year, enabling HAL to complete some of the outstanding aircraft. Discussions are also ongoing regarding the advanced GE-414 engine deal, which will be crucial for India's future fighter jet programmes. He expressed optimism that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US would help expedite these deliveries.

During his heated exchange with HAL officials at the Aero India show, the IAF Chief was unequivocal in his criticism of the delays.

"I can only convey our requirements and concerns... At the moment, I am just not confident in HAL, which is a very unfortunate situation," Singh remarked.

Condemning the company's lack of urgency, he added, "HAL is not in mission mode-everything appears to be met with a 'it will happen' attitude."

He expressed frustration over missed deadlines, stating, "I was promised that when I arrived here in February, we would have 11 Mk1As ready, minus the engine. And not a single one is ready yet... I am not pleased with this situation."

Towards the conclusion of the conversation, Singh clarified that he was not directing blame at individuals but was calling for a significant change in HAL's overall approach.