The fifth prototype of the two-seater Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) is projected to fly by August in line with expectation that the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) will be completed by 2008-09 for induction into the Air Force by 2009-10.

Indigenously developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), earlier three prototypes have together completed 590 test flight hours and weaponization of these phases will be complete in 18 months. HAL is also working on a naval version that is expected to fly by 2008.