Tejas (LCA) , India's very own Light Combat Aircraft has achieved an important milestone by gaining Initial Operational Clearance (IOC)  in December 2010 . This has authenticated the Indian aircraft's airworthiness. The birth of India's first fighter aircraft is thus certified. So far, 1,659 flight tests have been completed.

LCA, Tejas Phase-ll Programme (Air Force version) was sanctioned in November 2001 at a cost`of Rs.3301.78 Cr. with Probable Date of Completion (PDC) of December 2008. The project is likely to be completed by December 2012 with an additional cost of Rs.2475.78 Cr. The additional cost is to meet the expanded scope of the programme, increased cost of materials, manpower, maintenance of facilities, etc. 

Indian Air Force has ordered 40 Tejas Mk-I aircraft (20 aircraft in IOC and 20 aircraft in FOC standard). Two aircraft will be ready by March 2012 for induction.