The Tejas Mark 2—a next-generation 4.5-generation multirole fighter, designed to elevate India’s air power. Bigger, faster, and more powerful than its predecessor, the Mark 2 integrates cutting-edge technology, superior firepower, and enhanced stealth.

Performance & Design

Powered by the GE F414 engine, it delivers 98 kilonewtons of thrust, reaching speeds of Mach 1.8 and beyond. The aircraft boasts an extended range of 3,000 kilometers with drop tanks and a mission endurance of 120 minutes. Its modular design improves maintainability, turnaround time, and enables faster production, with an estimated 25 aircraft per year.

tejas mk2 features a larger airframe, canards for better maneuverability, and diverterless supersonic intakes to reduce its radar signature. Its Radar Cross Section (RCS) is one-fourth that of the Tejas Mk1, making it significantly harder to detect.

Avionics & Sensors
At its core, the Mark 2 is a technological powerhouse. It features the Uttam AESA radar, an Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system, and an advanced electronic warfare suite. It also includes Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and an Internal Health Monitoring System, improving both survivability and operational efficiency. Unlike its predecessor, the Mark 2 eliminates the need for an external Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), further enhancing its stealth.

Weapons & Firepower

With 14 hardpoints, the tejas mk2 first flight boasts a 6.5-ton payload capacity—nearly double that of the Tejas Mk1. It can carry up to 8 beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles at once, or 10 when using dual racks for Astra missiles. Additionally, it is equipped to deploy precision-guided bombs, smart munitions, and the BrahMos-NG cruise missile. Capable of +9G turns, the Mark 2 is built for high-agility combat scenarios.

Stealth & Future Readiness
Enhanced stealth features, composite materials, and an advanced fly-by-wire system make the Mark 2 harder to detect and deadlier in combat. It also includes aerial refueling capability for extended operational range.

When comparing the three fighter jets—J-10, F-16, and Tejas Mk2:

When comparing the J-10,tejas mk 2 vs f 16, the Tejas Mk2 can carry up to 6.5 tons of weapons, including indigenous and foreign missiles like Astra and Meteor. The F-16 has a payload capacity of around 7.7 tons and can carry AIM-120 AMRAAM, JDAMs, and other advanced munitions. The J-10 supports a 7.2-ton payload and is equipped with PL-15 and PL-10 missiles, providing long-range engagement capability.

[Conclusion]
Set to take its first flight in 2025, the hal tejas Mark 2 is a game-changer for the Indian Air Force, designed to replace aging MiG-29s, Mirage-2000s, and Jaguars. With superior endurance, high-speed production, and advanced combat capabilities, it represents a bold step towards self-reliance in defense.