The Indian Air Force has grounded its fleet of Tejas fighter jets following a serious runway incident involving the indigenously developed aircraft. The move has intensified scrutiny over India’s ambitious domestic combat aviation programme.
The Tejas light combat aircraft, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), was involved in a high-stakes training sortie earlier this month at a frontline air base. During landing, the jet reportedly overshot the runway and sustained significant structural damage, raising concerns about flight safety and operational reliability.
Initial probe findings suggest a possible technical malfunction linked to brake failure. However, authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. The pilot managed to escape without serious injuries, preventing what could have been a far more devastating outcome.
Following the mishap, the IAF ordered all approximately 30 operational single-seat Tejas aircraft to be grounded. Fleet-wide inspections and detailed technical evaluations are currently underway, highlighting the seriousness of the development.
This marks the third reported mishap involving the Tejas since its induction. In March 2024, a jet crashed near Jaisalmer after a demonstration sortie, though the pilot ejected safely. In November 2025, another Tejas aircraft went down during the Dubai Airshow, resulting in the death of the pilot. Investigations into that fatal crash are still ongoing.
The setback comes at a critical time for the Tejas Mk1A programme, an upgraded variant ordered in significant numbers by the IAF. The project is already facing delays of nearly two years due to engine supply constraints and technical bottlenecks. The latest grounding has added pressure on India’s push for self-reliance in advanced combat aviation and raised fresh questions about the programme’s pace and reliability.
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