Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has clarified reports regarding delays in the delivery of the LCA Mk1A fighter jets, stating that five aircraft are ready for delivery to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The company issued the statement on Thursday, February 5, 2026, in response to media reports suggesting potential delays due to pending avionics integration and final certifications.
HAL confirmed that the five ready aircraft incorporate major contracted capabilities and meet agreed-upon specifications. In addition, nine more LCA Mk1A aircraft have been manufactured and have completed successful test flights. These aircraft are awaiting the delivery of engines from GE Aerospace before they can be prepared for delivery. HAL has received five engines from GE as of February 5, and the company says the supply position is active.
The company reiterated that it is actively coordinating with the Indian Air Force to ensure the early delivery of the aircraft. HAL stated that it is in continuous engagement with the customer to expedite deliveries and that production and certification processes are moving in parallel. HAL also stated that all design and development issues identified so far are being addressed on a priority basis.
Despite the engine supply constraints, HAL maintained that it expects to meet the delivery guidance projected for the current financial year. The LCA Mk1A program is a key component of India's indigenous fighter aircraft roadmap and is central to the IAF's plans to modernize its combat fleet while reducing dependence on imports.
Following the reports of potential delays, shares of HAL experienced a downturn. On Thursday, February 5, 2026, HAL's stock was trading at Rs 4046.70, a decrease of Rs 170.25 or 4.04%. Another source mentions the stock declined 4.76% to ₹4,016.30 on the NSE. Yet another source reported that HAL stock fell 6% after Morgan Stanley downgraded it to 'underweight' and cut its price target by 34%, citing rising competition. Reports indicate that defense stocks, including HAL, experienced a slump on Thursday. The Nifty India Defence Index also dropped 2.7%, underperforming the broader Nifty 50.
The Indian Air Force has ordered 180 LCA Mark 1A aircraft in two tranches. The LCA Mark 1A is intended to replace aging MiG-21 variants, strengthen overall squadron numbers, and complement heavier platforms such as the Su-30MKI and Rafale within the Air Force's fighter fleet. The aircraft is viewed as a transitional solution until more advanced platforms enter service.