Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a sortie on the Tejas aircraft on Saturday , November 25. India’s indigenously developed light combat aircraft, at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facility in Bengaluru today. This is the first time that a Prime Minister has flown in the Tejas aircraft
About Tejas aircraft
The Tejas is a single-engine, multirole fighter aircraft designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by HAL. It is the smallest and lightest supersonic fighter aircraft in its class. The Tejas is capable of performing a variety of roles, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance.
The development of the Tejas began in the 1980s as the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, which was aimed at replacing India’s ageing MiG-21 fighters. The first prototype of the Tejas flew in 2001, and the aircraft was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2016.
The Tejas is powered by a single General Electric F404 engine and has a top speed of Mach 1.6. The aircraft is equipped with a variety of sensors and weapons, including a radar, a missile warning system, and a 23 mm cannon.
Past Projects related to Tejas
The Tejas is the culmination of decades of research and development in India’s aerospace industry. The ADA, HAL, and other Indian organisations have played a crucial role in the development of the aircraft.
The Tejas program has been one of the most ambitious and complex undertakings in Indian history. The program has faced numerous challenges, including delays and cost overruns. However, the successful development of the Tejas is a testament to India’s growing technological capabilities.
Interior of the aircraft
The Tejas cockpit is designed for maximum pilot comfort and efficiency. The cockpit is equipped with a glass cockpit avionics suite, which provides the pilot with a comprehensive view of the aircraft’s systems and surroundings.
The Tejas is also equipped with a fly-by-wire control system, which makes the aircraft easier to fly and manoeuvre. The fly-by-wire system also allows the aircraft to be flown in a variety of configurations, which makes it more versatile.
Tejas Impact on India
The development of the Tejas has had a significant impact on India. The aircraft has given India a degree of self-reliance in the defence sector. It has also boosted the morale of the Indian Air Force and has made India a more attractive partner for defence cooperation.
The Tejas has also generated employment opportunities for Indian engineers and technicians. The HAL facility in Bengaluru employs over 15,000 people, and the Tejas program has supported over 100,000 jobs across India
PM Modi’s Experience
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was “thrilled” to fly in the Tejas aircraft. He said that the aircraft was a “symbol of India’s progress and self-reliance.“
Modi also said that the Tejas was a “game-changer” for the Indian Air Force. He said that the aircraft would give the Indian Air Force a significant edge in the region.
Defence minister statement on Tejas “The Tejas is a testament to India’s growing technological capabilities.”
Conclusion
Tejas development is a major achievement for India as. The aircraft is a testament to India’s growing technological capabilities and is a symbol of India’s progress and self-reliance. The Tejas is also a game-changer for the Indian Air Force and will give India a significant edge in the region.