India-Made Fighter Jet Tejas Crashes for First Time; Pilot Ejected Safely

A domestically produced Indian Air Force fighter jet crashed in Rajasthan, marking the first incident since the induction of the Tejas jet nearly eight years ago. The pilot safely ejected, according to the Air Force. The crash has impacted the jet's safety record since its first test flight over two decades ago. The Tejas, a light combat aircraft, symbolizes India's push for local manufacturing to reduce dependence on defence imports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government aims to boost annual defence exports to $5 billion by 2025. In 2021, a $6 billion contract for 83 Tejas jets was awarded to state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Despite its induction in 2016, Tejas has faced design and operational challenges, with earlier rejection by the Indian Navy due to perceived weight issues. The crash raises concerns about the aircraft's performance and adds pressure on India's efforts to modernize its ageing fleet. Modi's ambitious defence export goals and diplomatic efforts to promote Tejas internationally highlight the strategic significance of indigenous defence production for India's defence sector.

भारत निर्मित लड़ाकू जेट तेजस पहली बार दुर्घटनाग्रस्त; पायलट को सुरक्षित बाहर निकाल लिया गया।

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