Indian Air Force Deploys Tejas Fighter Aircraft In Jammu And Kashmir For Valley Flying Experience

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed its indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas to Jammu and Kashmir in order to familiarise the fleet with flying in the valleys of the Union territory along the border with Pakistan.

“The LCA fleet has been moved to forward bases for gaining experience in flying in the valleys and other operations. The pilots of the fleet are carrying out extensive flying there,” defence officials said, as reported by news agency ANI.

With multiple bases in the Union territory, the IAF plays a critical role in operations on both fronts, including China and Pakistan.

To provide the aircraft with experience in the unique terrain of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, the IAF regularly moves its aircraft between the two Union territories in the northern sector.

Two squadrons of the IAF have already been operationalised with the initial operational clearance and final operational clearance versions of the aircraft. Additionally, a contract has been signed for the delivery of 83 Mark1As in the coming years.

The IAF is also closely monitoring the development of the LCA Mark 2 and the AMCA by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, as these aircraft hold great potential for the future.

Compared to the Pakistani and Chinese joint venture JF-17 fighter jet, the Indian Tejas aircraft is already considered to be significantly more capable. With the incorporation of advanced features like the HAMMER, the Indian aircraft will further elevate its position in terms of superiority.