Indian Air Force to resume operations of HAL Tejas fleet after software glitch grounded jets for nearly two months.
April 3, 2026: The Indian Air Force is set to resume flying operations of its HAL Tejas fleet from next week, nearly two months after grounding all aircraft following an accident. D. K. Sunil, chairman of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, confirmed that the issue has been resolved and all 34 jets are expected to return to service around April 8.
The fleet was grounded in February after a Tejas jet overshot the runway during a training sortie, initially suspected to be due to brake failure. A detailed review later identified a software-related glitch as the root cause. With corrective measures now in place, the aircraft are being cleared for operations, marking a key step in restoring the IAF’s combat readiness.
Despite this progress, delays continue to affect the Tejas Mark 1A programme. HAL expects to deliver over 20 jets by December, with a few nearing completion after final testing of radar, avionics and weapon systems. However, engine supply issues from GE Aerospace remain a bottleneck, with missed deadlines prompting HAL to impose penalties. The Tejas programme remains central to India’s defence strategy as the IAF works to address its declining squadron strength.