Part 8/11:
The Tejas program, which commenced over two decades ago, has faced significant setbacks, resulting in only a fraction of projected aircraft being delivered. These delays reflect broader issues within India’s defense industrial landscape, which continues to rely heavily on state-run enterprises—about 80%—and struggles with innovation and efficient production lines.
While India leads in producing a wealth of military equipment, the nation’s sluggish pace in developing advanced technologies threatens its position as a rising power. Despite significant manufacturing capabilities, India still ranks among the world's top arms importers, illustrating the challenges faced in establishing a robust domestic arms industry.