Tejas Mk2: India’s Next-Generation Fighter Jet Explained
Meta Description: Discover Tejas Mk2, India’s upgraded multirole fighter jet bridging the gap before AMCA and boosting indigenous defence capabilities.
Introduction
As India pushes forward with the AMCA program, the Tejas Mk2 emerges as a crucial stepping stone. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and produced by HAL, this next-gen jet is designed to fill a key capability gap in the Indian Air Force (IAF) before AMCA arrives.
What is Tejas Mk2?
The Tejas Mk2 is an advanced multirole combat aircraft developed to replace older IAF jets like the Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29. It is not just a beefed-up Tejas Mk1, but a significantly redesigned aircraft with greater payload, endurance, and capabilities.
Key Features of Tejas Mk2
✈️ Bigger and Stronger Airframe
- 1.5 meters longer than Mk1
- Higher payload capacity (~6,500 kg)
- Increased internal fuel for longer range
⚙️ Engine Power
- Powered by GE F414-GE-INS6 engine (98 kN thrust)
- Supercruise capability not yet confirmed but likely considered
💻 Avionics & Cockpit
- Indigenous Uttam AESA radar
- Infrared Search & Track (IRST)
- Advanced electronic warfare suite
- Touchscreen glass cockpit with AI integration
🔫 Weapons Integration
- BVR and short-range air-to-air missiles
- Laser-guided bombs
- Anti-ship and anti-radiation missiles
Why Tejas Mk2 is Important
🇮🇳 Bridging the Capability Gap
Tejas Mk2 will replace ageing fighter fleets, helping IAF maintain numerical strength and modernity until AMCA is fully inducted.
💡 Indigenous Defence Boost
Built under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Tejas Mk2 represents India’s maturing defence ecosystem, involving HAL, DRDO, BEL, and private firms.
🌏 Strategic Deterrence
With regional rivals enhancing air capabilities, Tejas Mk2 strengthens India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region with a homegrown solution.
Timeline & Production Goals
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Preliminary Design Completed |
| 2021 | Detailed design frozen |
| 2023 | Prototype manufacturing begins |
| 2025 | First flight expected |
| 2028 | Induction into IAF (projected) |
Tejas Mk2 vs Tejas Mk1A
| Feature | Tejas Mk1A | Tejas Mk2 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | ~13.5 m | ~14.7 m |
| Engine | F404 (85 kN) | F414 (98 kN) |
| Payload | ~5,300 kg | ~6,500 kg |
| Range | 1,700 km | >2,200 km |
| Avionics | Upgraded | Cutting-edge |
Challenges Ahead
- Meeting deadlines amid global supply chain issues
- Coordinating production ramp-up with HAL
- Ensuring cost-effectiveness and export readiness
Despite this, the program is on track and seen as vital to India’s long-term defence plans.
Internal & External Links
- AMCA: India’s 5th Gen Fighter Program
- Ghatak UCAV Program Overview
- Defence Manufacturing News
- ADA Official Website
- HAL Official Site
- Ministry of Defence
Conclusion
The Tejas Mk2 is a powerful symbol of India’s advancing aerospace industry. As a reliable and capable multirole fighter, it’s set to redefine the IAF’s operational capabilities and pave the way for a seamless transition into the 5th-generation AMCA era.
Stay tuned to DefenceNiti.com for regular updates and exclusive insights into India’s defence journey.
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