14 Years vs 33 Years: One Becomes Global King, Other Continues to Struggle
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Gripen vs Tejas: Why One Became a Global King, the Other Struggled for 33 Years
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News18•10-02-2026, 16:15
Gripen vs Tejas: Why One Became a Global King, the Other Struggled for 33 Years
•Saab JAS-39 Gripen and HAL Tejas are modern fighter jets developed for national security needs, both featuring delta wings and fly-by-wire systems.
•Gripen was inducted in 14 years (1982-1996), with over 270 units built, two production lines, and strong export success due to consistent funding, quick decisions, and international partnerships.
•Tejas took over 33 years (1983-2016) for induction, despite technical success and over 70% indigenous content, it faced delays, low production, and squadron shortages.
•Tejas's struggles stem from systemic issues: red tape, constantly changing requirements, failure of the indigenous Kaveri engine leading to foreign dependence (GE F404), and US sanctions post-Pokhran.
•While Tejas proves India's design capability, its image suffered due to delivery delays and grounded aircraft, highlighting the need for clear accountability and robust implementation to match Gripen's global success.
