The Indian Air Force has lost another HAL Tejas light combat aircraft during a routine training sortie. The jet suffered major damage on landing forcing the pilot to eject safely. This is the third Tejas aircraft lost since it entered service raising fresh concerns about fleet safety.
Preliminary reports indicate a possible technical fault or brake failure though official investigations are ongoing. The aircraft is expected to be written off while authorities work to determine the exact cause. Previous incidents include a crash near Jaisalmer in 2024 and a fatal accident at the Dubai Airshow in 2025 highlighting recurring safety and operational challenges.
In response the IAF has grounded its fleet of around 30 Tejas jets for comprehensive technical inspections and safety checks. Engineers are examining all systems and components to prevent further mishaps and ensure the safety of pilots during training and operational sorties.
The Tejas Mk1A programme has already faced production delays and this latest accident puts additional pressure on India’s indigenous air force modernisation plans. The fighter jet is a single-engine multi-role aircraft designed for air defence reconnaissance and strike missions and forms a key part of India’s push for domestically produced combat aircraft.
While the pilot’s safe ejection is a relief the crash raises serious questions about fleet readiness and safety protocols underscoring the importance of urgent technical reviews before the jets return to active service.
