Tejas Mk2: too late to matter or exactly what the IAF needs?

Tejas Mk2's delayed timeline has sparked debate over its relevance in the 2030s, when China will field advanced fifth-generation fighters. However, India's shrinking fighter fleet means the 4.5-generation Mk2 could still fill critical numbers and replace ageing Jaguars, MiG-29s and Mirage 2000s if HAL delivers it on time.