An Indian Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1 crashed during a mid-air demonstration at the Dubai Airshow, sadly resulting in the death of the pilot. The accident happened at around 2:10 PM local time while the aircraft was performing an aerobatic maneuver. The Indian Air Force (IAF) confirmed the tragedy in an official statement, expressing deep regret and support for the pilot’s family.
Witnesses captured the crash from various angles. Videos show the jet wobbling before going down in flames, with a thick plume of black smoke rising from the site. Emergency teams arrived quickly to manage the situation.
Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Kapil Kak commented on the incident, describing it as a “one-in-a-million” event. He noted that it was the second loss of a Tejas aircraft, but stressed that this crash should not tarnish the reputation of the Tejas program. “Crashes do happen in airshows,” he said. “Professionals understand this risk.”
He explained that during the maneuver, the pilot appeared to be attempting a negative-G turn at low altitude. This kind of maneuver requires ample height to recover safely—something that the pilot did not have, leading to the crash. Despite the tragic loss, Kak emphasized that such incidents do not reflect on the aircraft’s overall performance in normal missions.
The Tejas program is a significant testament to India’s defense capabilities. Kak stressed that India is among a select few countries capable of producing modern fighter jets. With 81 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft already ordered and further contracts likely in the pipeline, the Tejas fleet is set to play a crucial role in the future of the Indian Air Force.
Following the crash, Dubai’s emergency services acted swiftly, and the local media confirmed that firefighting and rescue teams reached the site promptly. Images showed responders working hard to manage the flames and debris.
In response to the tragedy, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep sorrow on social media, extending his condolences to the pilot’s family. The Indian Embassy in the UAE also offered assistance, coordinating with local authorities.
A Court of Inquiry has been initiated by the IAF to investigate the cause of the crash. This will involve analyzing flight data, maintenance records, and videos captured by bystanders. The inquiry aims to determine if the maneuver adhered to safety protocols and if technical issues could have played a role.
The Tejas Mk-1 involved in this incident is a pivotal part of India’s modern military. These aircraft have demonstrated their capabilities in various international displays and contribute significantly to India’s defense strategy. As the Indian Air Force continues to evolve, the Tejas program remains a vital asset, promising advancements in both capability and technology.
For more detailed insights on military aviation and the Tejas program, you can visit credible sources like India Today or Defence News.
Source link
TEJAS CRASH DUBAI, TEJAS, TEJAS PILOT DUBAI CRASH, TEJAS CRASH, TEJAS CRASH ‘EXTREMELY RARE’, SAYS AIR VICE MARSHAL (RETD) KAK
