Medium-weight evolution of the Tejas LCA, enlarged and significantly redesigned to address the limitations of the original design and provide India with a medium-class multirole fighter capability. The Mk2 (Medium Weight Fighter) features a 1-metre fuselage stretch for increased internal fuel (+2 tonnes), canard foreplanes for enhanced manoeuvrability and Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) performance, more powerful GE F414-INS6 engine producing 22,000 lbf (the same engine as the Super Hornet), AESA radar, internal EW suite, maximum weapon payload increased to 6,500 kg across 11 hardpoints, and significantly improved avionics and glass cockpit. Maximum speed of Mach 1.8 with combat radius exceeding 700 km. The Mk2 addresses the IAF's medium fighter requirement and will be more capable than the Mk1A while remaining lighter than the Su-30MKI. First flight expected in 2025 with Indian Air Force orders for 120+ aircraft to replace aging MiG-29 and Mirage 2000 fighters.
- UTTAM AESA radar is indigenous — no US export restrictions on software
- GE F414 provides 60% more thrust than Mk1 Kaveri derivative
- Medium-weight airframe enables larger fuel and weapons load vs Mk1
- Astra Mk2 BVR missile with active seeker provides independent AAM capability
- Full indigenous production — no import restrictions on use in conflict
- UTTAM AESA still in development — operational capability timeline uncertain
- GE F414 engine creates US supply chain dependency
- Program has experienced multiple schedule slippages
- Competing with Rafale, MQ-9B, and F-35 in Indian procurement priority
- Limited export prospects beyond India
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