Future Of Indian Space Tech To Journey Of LCA Tejas: ADA’s Aeronautics 2047 To Cover Next-Gen Air Power Roadmap

India’s long-term aerospace and air combat ambitions came into sharp focus as the two-day national seminar Aeronautics 2047, organised by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), began at the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Bengaluru on January 4, 2026.

The seminar, inaugurated by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, is aimed at shaping India’s aeronautical capabilities in the run-up to the centenary of independence, aligning defence preparedness with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The LCA Tejas aircraft will also be a key highlight of the seminar.

Addressing the gathering, Air Chief Marshal Singh congratulated ADA on the completion of 25 years since the first flight of the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and stressed the critical importance of adhering to delivery timelines. With this, he stressed on the timely induction of indigenous platforms like Tejas, which is essential to keep the Indian Air Force operationally ready in an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving threat environment.

Indigenous technology at the core of the discussion

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat emphasised the strategic necessity of developing cutting-edge indigenous technologies to reduce dependence on imports. He said the success of programmes like LCA Tejas demonstrates India’s growing capability to design, develop and manufacture advanced fighter aircraft, a key pillar of national security and strategic autonomy.

The seminar brings together experts from the armed forces, DRDO, industry, academia and MSMEs to deliberate on a wide spectrum of future-focused aerospace technologies, including manufacturing and assembly of next-generation combat aircraft; digital manufacturing and digital twin technologies; advanced aerodynamics and propulsion systems; flight testing techniques and certification challenges; flight control systems and next-gen avionics; maintainability challenges in fighter aircraft; artificial intelligence in aircraft design; precision manufacturing for actuators and airborne systems.

How does LCA Tejas fit into India’s future air power plans?

A major focus of the seminar is the evolution of the LCA Tejas programme, from concept sketches to frontline squadron service. Designed and developed by ADA, Tejas has completed over 5,600 successful flight trials with contributions from more than 100 government laboratories, academic institutions and industrial partners.

The programme led to the development of several niche technologies, including carbon composites, lightweight materials, fly-by-wire flight control systems, glass cockpit avionics and digital utility management systems, positioning Tejas as a fourth-generation fighter.

What’s next for the Tejas family?

The advanced LCA Mk1A variant is expected to serve as a potent multirole platform for the IAF, while the LCA Mk II and the naval variant are currently under development to meet future operational requirements. Distinguished experts associated with the Tejas programme will deliver technical talks during the seminar, offering insights into lessons learned and future design pathways.

India has inducted 38 Tejas aircraft – 32 fighters and six trainers – into two IAF squadrons so far, marking a significant milestone in indigenous fighter production.

Meanwhile, the ADA seminar also features an extensive exhibition by PSUs, DPSUs, private industry and MSMEs showcasing indigenously developed airborne systems, underscoring the growing depth of India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.