00:00At
00:27the prestigious Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, what was meant to be a showcase of India's
00:32growing aerospace prowess, took a dramatic turn as the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief
00:37Marshal AP Singh, criticized Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, better known as HAL, over significant
00:44delays in delivering the much-awaited light combat aircraft Tejas MK1A.
00:52Air Force Chief could be heard saying, I was promised that by February 11 Tejas MK1As would
00:58be ready and not a single one is ready.
01:01This is not the mission mode that we need.
01:08Strong words from the Air Force Chief reflecting the growing frustration within the Indian
01:12Air Force over HAL's repeated delays.
01:15The Tejas MK1A was meant to strengthen India's fighter fleet but the continued setbacks are
01:20now causing serious concerns.
01:22HAL showcased what it claimed to be the upgraded Tejas MK1A but Air Chief Marshal Singh was
01:29quick to point out that these were not the promised versions.
01:47He could be heard saying, Just changing one's software or appearance does not make it an
01:51MK1A.
01:52It needs to have the advanced weapons and enhanced capabilities to truly be called an
01:57MK1A.
02:01HAL attributes the delays to logistical and technical challenges but maintains optimism
02:05about the program's future.
02:07They cited advancements in avionics and electronic warfare systems, assuring that the MK1A would
02:13be game-changer once delivered.
02:16The Indian Air Force is currently grappling with a dwindling fighter fleet down to 31
02:21operational squadrons far below the sanctioned strength of 42.
02:25The induction of Tejas MK1A is critical as older jets like the MiG-21 and Jaguar are
02:31being phased out.
02:33This public reprimand by the Air Force Chief highlights a deeper issue, an apparent lack
02:38of confidence in HAL's capability to deliver on time.
02:42In the video that went viral, Air Chief Marshal Singh was heard saying, I am just not confident
02:48in HAL at this moment.
02:49We are simply not in mission mode.
02:51This ho jayega attitude has to change.
02:56The Tejas MK1A program is crucial for India's push for indigenous defence manufacturing
03:01and self-reliance.
03:02However, the delays have put this vision under strain.
03:06The coming months will be critical as HAL races against time to meet its commitments.
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