Tejas Crash: Second accident in 24 years, indigenous fighter jet a major strength of the Indian Air Force

New Delhi. An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during an air show in Dubai on Friday. The pilot died in the accident. The Indian Air Force expressed grief over the incident and decided to set up a court of inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.

The Tejas aircraft has crashed only once before Dubai. In 2024, a Tejas aircraft crashed in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. However, the pilot ejected safely. The Tejas is India’s indigenous light combat aircraft. Development began in 1983 and after a 42-year journey, it has become an operational platform.

India’s light combat aircraft, the Tejas, is a major achievement for the Indian Air Force. It replaces the aging MiG-21 fighter jets and demonstrates India’s ability to develop its own defense tactical technology. This aircraft took 42 years to develop, and it has now become a robust and efficient fighter aircraft that helps protect the country.

Introduction and History of Tejas
The word Tejas is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “radiant” or “bright.” It is India’s first fighter aircraft completely built in India. It began development in 1983 to replace the aging MiG-21 fighter jets. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) handled this work. Tejas represents India’s shift towards increasing its strength by relying less on foreign weapons.

Development and Manufacturing
Between 1983 and 2001, the Tejas was designed and faced numerous technical problems. The first model flew in 2001. Subsequently, new models were developed to improve it. It was approved for restricted use in 2011 and inducted into the Air Force in 2015. It was declared fully combat-ready in 2019.

Technical Features
The Tejas is a lightweight yet robust aircraft. Its delta-wing design improves speed and high-altitude control. Its body is made of 45 percent lightweight composite material, making it lightweight and durable.

Powered by General Electric’s F-404 engine, the Tejas can reach speeds of up to 2,200 kilometers per hour. It can fly at altitudes up to 16,500 meters and has a range of 3,000 kilometers.

Its weapons include air-to-air missiles, ground-attack bombs, and electronic defense equipment. The missile can be targeted directly from the pilot’s helmet.

Use in the Air Force
The Tejas is operated by two main squadrons of the Indian Air Force. The first squadron, located in Tamil Nadu, performs both combat and patrol duties. The second is in Gujarat, providing rapid strike defense along the border. The Tejas has demonstrated its prowess in numerous combat exercises.

Cost and Production
The Tejas Mk1A aircraft cost approximately ₹315 crore in 2021, rising to ₹600 crore in 2025. It is manufactured at three locations: two factories in Bengaluru and a new factory in Nashik. A total of 24 aircraft are produced each year.

International Response
The Tejas has gained worldwide acceptance, and several countries have expressed interest, including Malaysia, Argentina, and the Philippines. However, no foreign country has yet purchased the Tejas. This is due to the dependence on foreign-made British parts and delays in engine supplies.

Future Plans
India is developing the Tejas Mk2, which will be larger and stronger than the current version, and aims to be ready by 2028. India is also working on the 5th-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), with plans to purchase 120 aircraft.

Tejas is not just an aircraft, but a symbol of India’s indigenous strength and self-reliant defense. It modernizes and strengthens the Air Force by replacing older aircraft. Its technology, safety, and production capabilities are a source of pride for India. Tejas has shown India the path to reducing its dependence on imported aircraft.