An indigenous fighter jet Tejas, one of India’s most significant defence achievements, crashed during a flying demonstration at the Dubai Air Show on Friday afternoon. While the pilot ejected safely, the incident has once again brought attention to the aircraft’s history, development, safety standards, and operational record.
Despite being involved in only two crashes in 24 years, Tejas remains a symbol of India’s technological progress and aviation capability.
Here are five important facts about the aircraft following the Dubai crash.
1. Tejas Has Crashed Only Twice in 24 Years
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas had its first major crash earlier in India, and the Dubai Air Show incident marks only the second crash since its first flight in 2001.
Considering the length of its testing and operational period, Tejas maintains a strong safety record compared to global fighter jets with far longer crash histories.
2. Tejas Is India’s First Fully Indigenous Fighter Jet
Designed by ADA (Aeronautical Development Agency) and produced by HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited), Tejas represents:
Indigenous avionics
Composite airframe structure
Fly-by-wire controls
Advanced radar and electronic warfare systems
It stands as a milestone in Indian defence manufacturing, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
3. It Is One of the Lightest Supersonic Fighters in the World
Tejas is known globally for:
High agility
Lightweight composite materials
Smooth manoeuvrability
Supersonic performance
Its design makes it suitable for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat roles.
4. Tejas Is Already Inducted Into the Indian Air Force
The Indian Air Force operates Tejas under dedicated squadrons. The aircraft has:
Proven performance in training and operational missions
Participated in aerial displays worldwide
Been cleared for further upgrades & variants (Tejas Mk-1A, Mk-2)
The IAF has consistently praised its reliability and handling.
5. Crash Will Trigger a Joint India-UAE Probe
Following the Dubai crash:
A full technical investigation has been ordered
Flight data, maintenance logs, and debris will be analysed
Indian and UAE aviation authorities will jointly probe the cause
Such investigations are standard procedure after aerobatic demonstration incidents.
Tejas Program Still Robust Despite Setback
A single crash during an air show does not undermine the long-term capability or dependability of Tejas. Many internationally renowned fighter jets — including F-16, Rafale, Gripen, and Eurofighter Typhoon — have recorded dozens of crashes during their development and active service.
Tejas continues to be a key pillar of India’s defence future.
❓ FAQs
1. How many times has Tejas crashed?
Two times in 24 years — once in India and once at the Dubai Air Show.
2. Is Tejas safe?
Yes. Its low crash count and long development journey indicate strong safety levels.
3. Who manufactures Tejas?
HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) under the design framework of ADA.
4. Was the pilot safe in the Dubai crash?
Yes, the pilot ejected safely and is stable.
5. Will the Dubai crash affect the Tejas program?
No major impact is expected. Investigations will focus on technical causes.
6. What makes Tejas special?
Its indigenous design, lightweight agility, and advanced avionics.
Published on : 21st November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Edited by: Akash Majumder