The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) successfully conducted the inaugural flight of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A fighter jet in Bengaluru, as reported by news agency ANI. HAL officials confirmed that the Made in India LCA Mark 1A completed its first flight, remaining airborne for 15 minutes.
HAL Chairman Ananthakrishnan highlighted the significance of this achievement, emphasizing its contribution towards delivering the aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Additionally, HAL aims to deliver another LCA trainer aircraft to the IAF before March 31, following the successful completion of four trainer-version aircraft deliveries.
The fighter aircraft is expected to be stationed at Nal airbase in Rajasthan's Bikaner, near the Pakistan border, with plans for deployment of the first squadron at the Nal airbase. The agency also reported HAL's commitment to delivering the first twin-seater trainer version aircraft to the IAF by the end of March.
The IAF has signed a contract worth over ₹48,000 crore with HAL for the supply of 83 LCA planes, with clearance for an additional 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets. Notably, the Indian Air Force already operates two squadrons equipped with the light combat aircraft Tejas.
Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari hailed the clearance of the LCA Tejas Mark 1A as a "landmark event," highlighting its significance in bolstering the Indian Air Force's capabilities. With plans to increase the fleet to 220 LCA Mark 1As, the Indian Air Force is set to enhance its operational strength with nearly ten squadrons equipped with these indigenous fighter jets.
