How Does CDS Anil Chauhan Respond to the Tejas Fighter Crash at Dubai Air Show?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tragic crash of IAF Tejas fighter jet during Dubai Air Show.
- CDS Gen Anil Chauhan expresses profound condolences.
- Investigation underway to determine the cause of the accident.
- Dubai Air Show is a prestigious aviation exhibition.
- Second crash in Tejas aircraft's history since 2001.
New Delhi, Nov 21 (NationPress) In response to the unfortunate crash of the Indian Air Force's Tejas fighter jet in Dubai on Friday, CDS Gen Anil Chauhan expressed deep sorrow regarding the loss of life and extended support to the grieving family during this challenging period.
In a statement shared on X, the official page of the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff remarked, “General Anil Chauhan, CDS, along with all members of the Indian Armed Forces, profoundly regrets the incident where an IAF Tejas aircraft was involved in an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot tragically suffered fatal injuries in this event. We sincerely mourn the loss of life and stand resolutely with the bereaved family in this difficult time.”
The Tejas fighter jet crashed while performing at the Dubai Air Show on Friday, leading to the pilot's untimely death.
Earlier, the IAF stated, “An IAF Tejas aircraft encountered an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the incident. The IAF deeply mourns the loss of life and expresses solidarity with the bereaved family during this sorrowful time.”
Additionally, it was mentioned that “a court of inquiry is being initiated to determine the cause of the accident.”
The incident occurred during the Dubai Air Show, a prominent aviation exhibition held every two years.
This week has already seen significant announcements, and notably, this marks the second crash involving a Tejas aircraft; the first incident occurred in 2024 near Jaisalmer. In March 2024, a Tejas fighter went down in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer, marking the first accident in the aircraft's 23-year history since its inaugural test flight in 2001.
In that previous case, the pilot successfully ejected. The LCA Tejas is a 4.5-generation, all-weather, multi-role fighter aircraft, designed for offensive air support, close combat, and ground attack missions.
It is also equipped for maritime operations. During the Dubai Air Show, India and Germany revived high-technology defence collaboration after nearly three decades, culminating in Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signing a significant contract with German state-backed sensor firm HENSOLDT.