Did the Tejas Fighter Jet Crash at the Dubai Air Show?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IAF Tejas fighter jet crashed at the Dubai Air Show.
- The pilot tragically lost his life in the incident.
- An inquiry is underway to investigate the accident.
- This marks the second crash involving a Tejas aircraft.
- The Tejas is a versatile multi-role fighter designed for various combat roles.
New Delhi, Nov 21 (NationPress) A heartbreaking event unfolded when an Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet tragically crashed during a demonstration at the Dubai Air Show on Friday, resulting in the untimely death of the pilot.
In a statement shared on X, the IAF expressed, “An IAF Tejas aircraft encountered an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot suffered fatal injuries in this incident. The IAF deeply regrets the loss of life and stands in solidarity with the grieving family during this challenging period.”
Furthermore, the IAF mentioned, “A court of inquiry is being established to investigate the accident's cause.”
The crash took place at the biennial Dubai Air Show, recognized as one of the largest aviation exhibitions worldwide. This week has already seen significant announcements at the event.
This incident marks the second crash involving a Tejas aircraft, with the first occurring in 2024 near Jaisalmer.
Earlier in March 2024, a Tejas fighter jet went down in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer, marking the first such incident in the aircraft's 23-year history since its inaugural test flight in 2001. In that case, the pilot managed to eject to safety.
The LCA Tejas is a 4.5-generation, all-weather, multi-role fighter aircraft, designed to perform various roles, including offensive air support, close combat, and ground attack.
It is also capable of conducting ground maritime operations.
During the Dubai Air Show, India and Germany revived their high-technology defense collaboration after nearly three decades, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) entering into a pivotal contract with German state-backed sensor company HENSOLDT.
This groundbreaking agreement, finalized on Day 3 of the event, focuses on the collaborative development of an advanced LiDAR-based Obstacle Avoidance System (OAS) for Indian military helicopters, generating significant excitement across global aerospace circles.
The agreement for the LiDAR-based OAS, signed by Indian DPSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and German government-backed HENSOLDT, signifies a significant return to high-technology collaboration following past partnerships in aerospace and maritime programs.