India's new medium-weight fighter aims for frontal stealth and high maneuverability

Countries & Cities · Published 16 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The HAL Tejas Mk2 is not just an upsized version of its predecessor; it is a complete evolution into a 4.5 generation multirole fighter. Designed to replace aging strike jets, it combines a tail-less compound delta-wing with advanced sensors to achieve a degree of frontal stealth.

The Tejas Mark 2, also known as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), was authorized in November 2009 to address shortcomings in the Mark 1 and 1A models. Originally intended as a Tejas variant featuring a 0.5 m fuselage extension, the aircraft transformed into a 17.5-tonne-class jet. Key design features include close-coupled canards to provide static instability for high maneuverability, a single vertical stabilizer, and fly-by-wire systems. To enhance survivability, the airframe incorporates radar-absorbent material coatings, composite skins, and twisted air-intake ducts to achieve frontal stealth.

Powering the aircraft is a significant engineering hurdle. Linked to the US-made GE F414, the current project utilises a powerplant producing 98 kN of thrust. However, due to supply delays and rising costs, India is considering a 110 kN thrust engine from the French company Safran. This potential upgrade would increase the aircraft's speed, payload capacity, and endurance. The MWF is designed to carry a payload of 6,500 kg and internal fuel exceeding 3,400 kg, allowing for a longer range and more weapons across 11 stations.

Indigenization is a primary goal, with a target of 82% initial content, rising to over 90% after licensed engine production. The aircraft will feature an indigenous integrated life-support system (ILSS-OBOGS), a Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS), and a variant of the Uttam AESA Radar. While the project has faced funding and schedule shifts—with the first flight expected between late 2025 and mid-2027 depending on the latest reports—the Indian government has sanctioned ₹10,000 crore to complete development by 2027.

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