PM Narendra Modi takes sortie on Tejas fighter jet in Bengaluru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday soared through the skies aboard Tejas during his visit to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) site in Bengaluru, Karnataka. As part of his comprehensive review, he assessed HAL's manufacturing facility, focusing on the production of light combat aircraft. Reports say the Prime Minister's flight lasted approximately 45 minutes. “Successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country’s indigenous capabilities, and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential,” PM Modi wrote on X.While the Tejas is typically a single-seater fighter aircraft, the Prime Minister opted for a sortie in the twin-seat trainer variant utilised by both the Air Force and the Navy.The Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter aircraft, is crafted to deliver offensive air support and offer close combat assistance for ground operations. Earlier, PM Modi reiterated his advocacy for self-reliance during his recent visit to the United States. Subsequently, a pivotal agreement was reached between GE Aerospace and HAL for the collaborative manufacturing of engines intended for the Tejas Mk-II fighter jet. This development aligns closely with the Prime Minister’s vision for enhancing national defence through self-sufficiency. Currently, the Indian Air Force is actively utilising 40 Tejas MK-1 aircraft, and a substantial order for 83 Tejas MK-1A fighters is in progress. This procurement deal is valued at ₹36,468 crore. Earlier this month, the LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) Tejas showcased its prowess at the Dubai Air Show, participating in both static and aerial displays. Crafted by HAL, the LCA Tejas was originally conceived for the Indian Air Force. However, HAL is currently testing a Naval variant of the Tejas tailored for Ground Maritime Operations. One of HAL's notable accomplishments lies in the indigenous development of the fly-by-wire system embedded in the Tejas. The Indian Air Force is currently in command of two squadrons equipped with the LCA Tejas: No. 45 Squadron, renowned as the Flying Daggers, and No. 18 Squadron, recognized as the Flying Bullets.