During the Dubai Air Show on Friday, an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet tragically crashed. The pilot lost his life in this unfortunate incident. The Indian Air Force expressed profound sorrow and initiated a Court of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances leading to this accident.
The Tejas jet has experienced only one prior mishap before Dubai. In 2024, a crash occurred in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, but the pilot fortunately ejected safely.
Tejas stands as India's indigenous light combat aircraft, with its development commencing in 1983. Today, after a journey spanning 42 years, it serves as a crucial operational platform.
Unraveling the Importance of Tejas to the Indian Air Force
The light combat aircraft Tejas is a monumental achievement for the Indian Air Force, superseding the outdated MiG-21s, and showcases India's self-reliance in defense technology development. This fighter, born of four decades of dedication, is a sturdy combat-ready aircraft bolstering national security.
Origin and Legacy of Tejas
Deriving from the Sanskrit term meaning "radiant," Tejas is India's first fully indigenous fighter aircraft. Its conception began in 1983 to replace the aging MiG-21s. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) spearheaded this initiative. Tejas symbolizes India's reduced dependency on foreign weaponry and strength enhancement.
Source: aajtak
Development and Manufacture
Between 1983 and 2001, extensive work on Tejas' design tackled numerous technical hurdles. The maiden flight of its first prototype occurred in 2001, followed by enhanced models. It received conditional clearance for use in 2011, joining the Air Force in 2015. By 2019, it was declared fully combat-ready.
Technology Highlights
Tejas, a nimble yet powerful aircraft, is constructed with a delta-wing design enhancing control at high speeds and altitudes. Its body utilizes 45% lightweight composite materials, ensuring durability and agility.
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Powered by a General Electric F-404 engine, Tejas can soar at a maximum speed of 2200 km/h. It reaches altitudes of up to 16,500 meters and travels distances up to 3000 kilometers.
Its arsenal includes air-to-air missiles, ground assault bombs, and electronic warfare equipment, enabling missile targeting via the pilot's helmet.
Service in the Air Force
The Indian Air Force operates two principal Tejas squadrons. The first, based in Tamil Nadu, performs combat and surveillance missions, while the second in Gujarat focuses on rapid border defense. Tejas has demonstrated its might in numerous military exercises.
Production Costs and Output
In 2021, Tejas Mk1A's cost was approximately 3.15 billion INR, subsequently rising to 6 billion INR in 2025. Manufacturing occurs across three sites: two factories in Bengaluru and a new facility in Nashik, producing 24 jets annually.
Global Interest
Tejas has gained global recognition, attracting interest from nations like Malaysia, Argentina, and the Philippines. However, no foreign nation has purchased Tejas due to reliance on British parts and engine supply delays.
Looking Ahead
India's developing the larger and more robust Tejas Mk2, aiming for completion by 2028. Concurrently, the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), with plans to acquire 120 units, is underway.
Tejas embodies more than an aircraft; it is a symbol of India's indigenous prowess and self-reliant defense. Replacing outdated planes, it strengthens the Air Force with modern precision. Its cutting-edge technology, secure production, and strategic value signify immense pride for India, paving the path to reduced dependency on imported aircraft.
