The crash of India’s Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow has raised eyebrows internationally, with analysts calling it a major embarrassment for New Delhi’s aviation credibility. Experts say the incident fuels doubts about India’s defence capabilities and the reliability of its indigenous fighter programme.
Experts Highlight Impact on India’s Aviation Reputation
Retired Pakistan Air Force officers and defence analysts have weighed in on the crash. Air Vice Marshal (retd) Ijaz Malik told Radio Pakistan that while airshow accidents are not uncommon, the Tejas incident carries special significance in today’s global security climate.
“International defence circles have already been questioning Indian pilots’ skills, aircraft reliability, and air-defence systems,” Malik said. He noted that India has been trying to replace its ageing MiG fleet—often called “flying coffins” due to frequent crashes—with the domestically developed Tejas jet.
Malik added that the Indian pilot may have faced “immense psychological pressure,” possibly influenced by the strong performance of Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder during an acrobatic display a day earlier.
Concerns Over India’s Fighter Programme
The crash comes at a time when India is striving to modernize its air force and showcase its domestic defence technology on the global stage. Analysts say such incidents not only undermine confidence in India’s aviation programme but also give international competitors and observers reason to question New Delhi’s fighter jet capabilities.
Defence experts argue that while mishaps happen, the timing and visibility of the Tejas crash could have strategic and reputational consequences. It highlights the ongoing challenges in pilot training, aircraft reliability, and public perception for India’s indigenous aviation projects.
As the fallout continues, questions remain about how India will address these concerns while maintaining momentum in its ambitious fighter jet modernization plans.
