The Ministry of Defence has announced that the Indian Air Force (IAF) will rely on the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and its future variants as their primary aircraft. The upcoming variant, Tejas MK-1A, will have the ability to launch various weapons, including beyond visual range missiles.
It will also feature upgraded avionics, an active electronically steered radar, and an improved electronic warfare suite. The LCA MK-1A will have a significantly higher percentage of indigenous components. Tejas is a single-engine, multirole fighter aircraft designed for air defense, maritime reconnaissance, and strike missions.
It can carry a wide range of air-to-air, air-to-surface, precision-guided, and standoff weaponry. Since 2016, Tejas has been in service with the IAF and is expected to have a crucial role in the future.
The Ministry of Defence’s decision to prioritize Tejas and its future variants for the IAF demonstrates the government’s commitment to indigenous defense production. It also reflects the IAF’s confidence in the capabilities of Tejas. With its impressive features, Tejas has the potential to play a vital role in India’s defense.
