Even as the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is yet to receive its Initial Operational Clearance from its user the Indian Air Force, the Minister of State for Defence MM Pallam Raju today told the Parliament that the force has begun the preparation to induct the fighter in its inventory.
Here is the written reply by the Defence Minister-
"The Initial Operational Clearance-1 (IOC-1) for the Tejas
Light Combat Aircraft has been achieve on 10th January, 2011. Presently, LCA
development activities leading to final operational clearance are in progress.
Action for induction of Tejas into IAF has been initiated. IAF has placed
orders for 40 aircraft on HAL.
Tejas Mark-I is planned at present for 40 aircraft only.
Tejas Mark-II aircraft is under development with an alternate higher powered
engine with considerable improvements. Final cost assessment will be available
only after the development phase of Mark II is completed. Scope for cost
reduction of Tejas Mk-I has been examined and the same is assessed as not
feasible in view of limited quantities.
Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is the nodal
organization for the development of Tejas.
Rs.11845.20 Crores have been sanctioned by the government of
India to ADA for the development of Tejas till date and the total expenditure
incurred so far is Rs.5051.46 Crores.
IAF plans to induct six LCA squadrons by the end of the 13th
Plan.
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