HAL Downplays Tejas Crash, Calls it 'Isolated Incident' Amid IAF's Plans for Advanced Variant
Image Source: Internet
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has assured investors that the recent crash of a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA Mk-1) at the Dubai Airshow on November 21 is an isolated incident. The company informed Indian stock exchanges that the crash will not affect its business operations or future deliveries. The incident occurred when the pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, was performing low-level aerobatic manoeuvres. Tragically, he lost his life in the crash, the second involving the India-built single-engine fighter jet since its induction by the Indian Air Force in July 2016. An inquiry has been ordered by the IAF to determine the cause of the accident. This incident comes at a time when the IAF is planning to induct an advanced variant of the plane, the LCA Mk-1A. Notably, a similar incident occurred in March 2024, when a Tejas fighter jet crashed near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. However, the pilot ejected safely at the time. The IAF operates two Mk-1 squadrons, and has placed orders for 180 Mk-1As with a combined value of ₹1.1 lakh crore. The first contract for 83 jets was signed in February 2021, while the second contract for 97 fighters was inked in September 2025. Although none of the fighters ordered four years ago has been delivered yet, the IAF is expected to receive the first of the 83 jets in the coming months, with deliveries expected to continue over the next four to five years. The second contract is expected to be executed from 2027-28 and wrapped up over six years.
