The HAL Tejas Mk2 is an Indian-made 4.5-generation light multirole fighter aircraft, a further development of the Tejas Mk1. It has been upgraded to Medium Weight Fighter (MWF) status with a larger design, more powerful engines (GE F414), improved aerodynamics (canards), advanced sensors (IRST, AESA Radar), and a higher payload for a wider range of missions, replacing legacy aircraft such as the Jaguar and Mirage 2000.
Key Differences with the Tejas Mk1:
Size & Class: Upgraded from LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) to MWF (Medium Weight Fighter) with a longer fuselage and larger wingspan.
Aerodynamics: Equipped with canards (small fins at the front) for more agile maneuverability and improved lift.
Engine: Uses a significantly more powerful GE F414 engine (approximately 98 kN) than the F404 engine on the Mk1.
Sensors: Adoption of advanced IRST (Infrared Search and Track) sensors and AESA radar.
Mission Capabilities: Increased fuel capacity, higher payload capacity, and longer mission duration.
Status and Development:
Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
It is intended to replace several aging fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The maiden flight of the Tejas Mk2 prototype is scheduled for June 2026, with mass production scheduled to begin around 2027–2028, with induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF) planned for 2029.
Overall, the Tejas Mk2 represents a major leap forward in India's aerospace capabilities, offering significant improvements over the Tejas Mk1.
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