---
title: "Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA): India's Fighter"
description: "The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft is India's indigenous fourth-generation fighter, crucial for enhancing self-reliance in defense capabilities."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/tejas-light-combat-aircraft"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft is a single-engine, multirole fourth-generation fighter designed and built in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the Indian Air Force and Navy.
- Who designs and manufactures the Tejas, and what is the difference between the two?
- How does the Tejas differ from the AMCA?
- Why has the Tejas programme faced criticism over self-reliance?
- What are the IOC and FOC milestones in the Tejas programme?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In February 2021, India's Ministry of Defence signed a ₹48,000 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for 83 Tejas Mark 1A fighters, then the country's largest indigenous defence procurement deal.

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