Prime Minister Narendra Modi Takes Sortie in Indigenous Tejas Fighter Jet
The Tejas aircraft, a light combat fighter jet built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), was flown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. Here are five key facts about the Tejas fighter jet:
1. The Tejas trainer that the Prime Minister flew in today was a brand new dual-seat aircraft handed over to the Indian Air Force. It is a fully combat capable multirole fighter, and the sortie was piloted by an IAF pilot.
2. Despite the Prime Minister usually opting for twin-engine aircraft for safety reasons, the Tejas is a single-engine aircraft with a commendable safety record. This demonstrates the government’s confidence in this particular aircraft.
3. The Tejas is poised to become the backbone of the Indian Air Force in the coming years. Numerous Tejas aircraft are already in service, and a significant number of pending orders are yet to be fulfilled. An order for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets for the IAF is expected to be completed by 2029.
4. India’s defense acquisition priorities prioritize self-reliance in the defense sector, known as “aatmanirbharta.” At the core of this self-reliance is the Tejas, which is gradually being upgraded with new technologies. The Tejas Mk1A will undergo significant enhancements, including greater range and more electronic warfare systems. Furthermore, plans for a Tejas Mk2 are in progress.
5. HAL recently signed a deal with General Electric to manufacture jet engines in India, which was announced in Washington. This collaboration will deliver dozens of engines for the Tejas jets currently on order. General Electric will establish a F414 engine manufacturing line in India to power the Tejas Mk2.
The Tejas fighter jet represents India’s dedication to bolstering its defense capabilities through indigenous manufacturing and technological advancements. With ongoing upgrades and collaborations, the Tejas is set to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s security.
For more information about the Tejas fighter jet, click here.
