IAF and army chiefs fly together in Tejas MK-1

Bengaluru

 In a landmark event for India’s defense sector, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh piloted a Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi as the co-pilot. This marks the first time an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief has flown an Army Chief in an indigenous combat aircraft.

Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the Tejas Mk-1 is a fourth-generation light combat aircraft known for its agility and advanced avionics. Its induction into the IAF strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in defense production. Before this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew in a Tejas Mk-1 in November 2023, taking a 30-minute sortie in Bengaluru, showcasing the government’s confidence in the aircraft. His flight reinforced Tejas’ role in India’s defense strategy and boosted its global standing. The Tejas is designed for multi-role operations, equipped with advanced radar, electronic warfare capabilities, and precision-guided weaponry.

With planned upgrades like Tejas Mk-1A and Tejas Mk-2, India aims to strengthen its indigenous fighter fleet and reduce reliance on foreign aircraft. This historic flight featuring both service chiefs highlights India’s military cohesion and growing confidence in domestically built fighter jets. It represents a crucial step toward a self-reliant defense ecosystem, reinforcing India’s commitment to indigenous defense manufacturing.