Initial Operational Clearnance for LCA slips further

It has been the aircraft in the making for over 25 years now. And the IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal on Friday said the delivery dates of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has slipped further. "Yes the IOC (Initial Operational Clearance) has slipped further. DRDO is now looking for the middle of third quarter next year," the Chief said.

The LCA, however, will be participating in the Iron Fist Fire Power Demonstration planned next year. It will be the first participation of this domestic-built fighter jet.

Regarding progress of LCA Mk-II, Air Chief Marshal Browne said that it was linked with the progress of the Mk-I. Presently the Mk-1 is powered by G-404 engine whereas Mk-II will be powered by G-414 engine. The DRDO will be signing contract for the engines soon and the aircraft will have to be made around the engine. The time line for the aircraft to materialise is 2016-18.

IAF to induct 6 LCA squadrons by 2022

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to raise six squadrons of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas by the end of 2022. With six squadrons of MiG-21s to be phased out by 2017, the IAF will need some force augmentation at the earliest.

Here is the statement made by Defence Minister AK Antony in the Parliament-

"There has been delay in the manufacturing of indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This is a design and development project and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is the nodal organization for the development of Light Combat Aircraft, Tejas. The Initial Operational Clearance-1 (IOC-1) for the Tejas has been achieved on the 10th January, 2011. Presently, LCA development activities leading to final operational clearance are in progress.

The deliveries of aircraft are scheduled in the 12th plan period (2012-2017). It is planned to induct six LCA squadrons by the end of 13th Plan (2017-2022)."