The Indian Air Force (IAF) has lost another HAL Tejas light combat aircraft in an accident earlier this month, marking the third such incident since the jet’s induction. The entire fleet of around 30 single-seat Tejas aircraft has been temporarily grounded for intensive technical checks and a safety probe .
Details of the Latest Incident
The accident occurred during landing after a routine training sortie at an operational or forward air base . According to initial reports:
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The pilot ejected safely and is reported to be unharmed
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The aircraft suffered severe damage during landing
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A suspected brake failure after touchdown may have led to a runway overrun
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Due to the extent of damage, the aircraft may be written off
The exact cause remains under investigation, and the IAF has not yet issued an official statement on the incident .
Timeline of Tejas Losses
This latest accident is the third involving a Tejas aircraft since its induction:
| Incident | Date | Location | Details | Pilot Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Crash | March 2024 | Near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan | Crashed after a firepower demonstration during the “Bharat Shakti” exercise | Ejected safely |
| Second Crash | November 2025 | Dubai Airshow, UAE | Crashed during an aerobatic display; inquiry still underway | Fatal (Wing Commander Namansh Syal) |
| Third Crash | February 2026 | Unidentified forward air base | Overshot runway during landing; suspected brake failure | Ejected safely |
Context: Tejas Programme Challenges
The crash comes at a critical time for the Tejas program, which faces significant headwinds:
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Delayed Mk1A Deliveries: Deliveries of the more advanced Tejas Mk1A variant are running nearly two years behind schedule, primarily due to delayed supply of GE F404 engines from American manufacturer GE Aerospace
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Substantial Orders: Despite delays, the Tejas remains central to India’s defence modernization. In September 2025, the defence ministry signed a deal valued at INR 623.7 billion to procure 97 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft, described as multi-role fighters capable of air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike missions
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Squadron Strength: The IAF is grappling with a shrinking fighter fleet, currently operating around 29-31 squadrons against an authorised strength of 42, making each loss significant for operational readiness
The grounding of the entire single-seat fleet for technical scrutiny indicates the seriousness with which authorities are treating these recurring incidents, as ensuring operational reliability is paramount for India’s indigenous defence capabilities .
