IAF Combat Aircraft Tejas crashes in Rajasthan, pilot ejects safely

Digital Desk: A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas of the Indian Air Force tragically crashed during an operational training sortie in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer on Tuesday. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely before the plane went down. This incident marks the first such mishap involving the indigenous Tejas jet.

The Indian Air Force swiftly responded, stating that a Court of Inquiry had been initiated to ascertain the cause of the accident. Videos from the crash site depict thick, black smoke emanating from the wreckage, as authorities work to secure the area.

Remarkably, the crash site was situated approximately 100 km away from the Pokhran desert, where a major military exercise, 'Bharat Shakti,' was underway with the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top military officials. Despite the proximity, no civilian casualties or property damage were reported.

The Tejas aircraft, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), serves as a crucial asset for the Indian Air Force, fulfilling roles in air combat, offensive air support, reconnaissance, and anti-ship operations.

With nearly 40 initial variants already inducted, Tejas is slated to become the backbone of the IAF's fleet.

While this incident underscores the inherent risks in military aviation, it also underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and adherence to strict safety protocols to prevent such accidents in the future.