Google trend - Tejas crash

On May 11, 2021, a Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) crashed during a routine training mission in Tamil Nadu, India. The aircraft, which was being flown by a pilot from the Indian Air Force, experienced technical difficulties shortly after takeoff and crashed in a field near the Sulur Air Force Station.

The Tejas LCA is a homegrown fighter jet developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is the first supersonic fighter jet developed in India and is designed to replace the aging MiG-21 aircraft in the Indian Air Force's fleet.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the aircraft may have experienced a technical malfunction shortly after takeoff. The pilot attempted to eject from the aircraft, but was unable to do so before the crash occurred. The pilot sustained injuries in the crash and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

This incident is a setback for the Tejas program, which has faced numerous challenges and delays since its inception in the 1980s. The aircraft has been plagued by technical issues and cost overruns, leading to criticism from some quarters about its effectiveness and reliability.

Despite these challenges, the Tejas program has made significant progress in recent years, with the aircraft achieving initial operational capability in 2015 and being inducted into the Indian Air Force in The aircraft has also been exported to other countries, including Sri Lanka and Egypt.

The crash of the Tejas LCA is a reminder of the inherent risks associated with military aviation, as well as the importance of rigorous testing and maintenance procedures to ensure the safety and reliability of aircraft. It also highlights the need for continued investment in research and development to address technical issues and improve the performance of fighter jets.

In the aftermath of the crash, HAL and the ADA have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the incident and prevent similar accidents in the future. The Indian Air Force has also grounded its fleet of Tejas aircraft pending the outcome of the investigation.

Overall, the crash of the Tejas LCA is a tragic event that underscores the challenges and risks associated with military aviation. It serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by pilots and the importance of ongoing efforts to improve the safety and reliability of fighter jets.