LCA fleet to resume flights after software fix: HAL

New Delhi: Nearly two months after the indigenous LCA fleet was grounded following an accident, the jets are likely to resume flying as checks and rectifications near completion. HAL chairman DK Sunil said the issue that led to the accident was linked to software controlling the fighter's braking system.

"There was a technical issue which has been detected. Now it has been discussed by the local modification committee, and we expect by another week we will be able to get them off the ground," he said.

A joint team of HAL officials, Air Force personnel and the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification is working on the problem, with two separate solutions under development, officials said. IAF has 35 LCA jets in service, of which three have been lost in accidents. It has also ordered 180 LCA Mk1A jets from HAL, which are under production but have missed delivery timelines.


The latest incident occurred on February 7, when an aircraft sustained significant damage and is likely to be written off. The pilot survived with minor injuries. On delays in Mk1A deliveries, Sunil said 18-20 airframes have been manufactured, but engine supplies are awaited.

He said firing tests for ASRAAM air-to-air missiles are yet to be completed and the radar needs to be demonstrated at full capacity.