Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:22pm on 16 May 2024,Thursday Defence
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) directs Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to expedite delivery of 18 Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets by March 2025. HAL, yet to deliver any of the first tranche of 83 aircraft ordered, faces pressure to meet production targets. With the Indian Air Force (IAF) operating below mandated squadron strength, the urgency to bridge the fighter jet gap is paramount. HAL's new production line in Nashik aims to bolster output, while supply chain disruptions are addressed. Meeting contract deadlines crucial as aging jet fleets face retirement, necessitating indigenously produced replacements.