♦ On 21 August 2025, the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) said that the Centre has approved the acquisition of 97 LCA Mk-1A fighter jets worth Rs.62,000 crore.  

♦ The deal is seen as a major milestone for the jet manufacturer, which has been advancing the indigenous Tejas programme to phase out the Air Force’s ageing fleet of Soviet-era MiG-21 jets.

♦ The LCA Mk-1A is an upgraded version of the Tejas, with enhanced combat capabilities.

♦ The latest defence contract marks the second major order for the aircraft, following HAL’s contract win in February 2021.