Tejas Mk-1 Completes 7 Years of Service

July 1, 2023

The Tejas Mk-1, India’s indigenously developed fighter aircraft, has marked a significant milestone as it completes seven years of service with the Indian Air Force (IAF). Since its induction in 2016, the Tejas Mk-1 has showcased its capabilities in various missions, reflecting India’s prowess in the aviation industry.

Origins and Maiden Flight

The Tejas program was initiated in the early 1980s, with the aim of replacing the Mig-21 fighters. Years of research and development culminated in January 2001 when the first prototype of Tejas took its maiden flight. This momentous event laid the foundation for a homegrown marvel in the aviation domain.

Induction and Squadrons

In 2016, the Indian Air Force officially inducted the Tejas Mk-1, with the No. 45 squadron ‘Flying Daggers’ becoming the first squadron to operate this indigenous fighter aircraft. Since then, the Tejas Mk-1 has been tirelessly serving the nation’s defense needs, accumulating over 4,000 hours of incident-free flying.

Versatility in Missions

The Tejas Mk-1 boasts an impressive array of capabilities, making it a versatile multirole aircraft. It excels in air-defense, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), air-interdiction, as well as maritime strike and reconnaissance missions. This versatility ensures its effectiveness in safeguarding India’s airspace and providing strategic support.

Advanced Features of the Tejas Mk-1A

The upcoming Tejas Mk-1A variant showcases numerous advancements that further enhance its capabilities. Equipped with an active electronically-scanned array radar, the aircraft can detect enemy aircraft at greater ranges while resisting jamming attempts. Additionally, the Tejas Mk-1A features an advanced self-protection jamming suite, a digital flying control computer, and faster turnaround times for increased operational efficiency.

Forty Major Improvements

Compared to the Tejas Mk-1, the Tejas Mk-1A incorporates 40 major improvements that elevate its performance and functionality. These enhancements contribute to its overall effectiveness on the battlefield, demonstrating India’s commitment to continuously enhance its indigenous defense capabilities.

IAF’s Order and Future Prospects

The Indian Air Force has placed an order for 83 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), reflecting the confidence in this homegrown fighter jet. This significant order worth Rs 48,000 crore signifies the IAF’s commitment to indigenous defense production and paves the way for further advancements in the Indian aviation industry.

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