State-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Monday clarified that there was no crash involving the LCA Tejas, countering recent media reports. The company stated that the event in question was a minor technical issue on the ground and did not involve any airborne accident.
In a stock exchange filing, HAL emphasised that the LCA Tejas maintains one of the world’s best safety records among contemporary fighter aircraft. The company added that, as per standard operating procedures, the issue is being analysed in coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for prompt resolution.
Meanwhile, providing an update on the LCA Mk1A programme, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said five engines are currently available and five aircraft are already flying. Production has largely stabilised across Indian vendors and HAL, and is expected to improve further once engine supplies from GE stabilise.
The Defence Secretary noted that while weapon trials have been successful, certain operational requirements of the IAF are yet to be fully met. However, with a planned order of 180 LCA Mk1A aircraft, refinements and capability enhancements are expected over time to align fully with Air Force expectations.
Earlier this month, HAL confirmed that five LCA Mk1A jets are fully ready for delivery, with nine additional aircraft already built and flown. These aircraft will be delivered upon receipt of engines, reinforcing the government’s push to strengthen indigenous fighter production.
The clarification seeks to allay concerns regarding the Tejas programme, which remains a cornerstone of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing and air combat capability enhancement efforts.
