Tejas Mk-1A Successfully Completes Its Maiden Flight, Likely To Be Delivered To IAF Soon

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Thursday (28 March) successfully completed the first flight of India's indigenous fighter aircraft LCA Mark 1 A in Bengaluru.

"First flight of the Made in India indigenous LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft has been completed in Bengaluru by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited today," news agency ANI reported citing HAL officials.

The aircraft was airborne for over 15 minutes during its first flight.

This comes as the HAL is gearing up for delivering the first Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark-1A to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by the end of this month.

The state-owned Defence PSU is also working on the expedited delivery of the first twin-seater trainer version of the aircraft.

The HAL is reportedly working towards delivery the fighter jets to the IAF by 31 March.

The delivery of the LCA MK1A aircraft would be a big fillip for the indigenous fighter aircraft project where an advanced aircraft would be provided to the IAF.

The IAF has already signed a contract with HAL, worth over Rs 48,000 crore, for the supply of 83 LCA planes.

Additionally, there is clearance for the acquisition of another 97 aircraft at a cost of Rs 65,000 crore.

The HAL has already conduced ground trials, including slow taxi runs, paving the way for the aircraft's induction.

The LCA Mark 1 variants were initially introduced into the IAF in 2016, with the 45 Squadron and 18 Squadron being the first to operate these indigenous jets.

The decision to procure more LCAs comes at a critical time as the IAF seeks to modernise its fleet and replace aging MiG-series aircraft.

The inclusion of the LCA, known for its agility and advanced capabilities, is seen as a strategic move to maintain the IAF's competitive edge in the region.

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