Lauding induction of HAL’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) into IAF, PM Narendra Modi today said that this is a matter of unparalleled pride & happiness. “Induction of indigenously made Tejas fighter jet into the Air Force fills our hearts with unparalleled pride & happiness,” PM Modi tweeted.
“I laud HAL & ADA on the induction of Tejas fighter jet. This illustrates our skills & strengths to enhance indigenous defence manufacturing,” the Prime Minister said.
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar also tweeted his congratulations on the historic milestone. “Moment of National pride. Indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet inducted into Air Force. Tejas will take our air strength to new heights,” he said.
Also check: Tejas: 10 special facts & stunning images of LCA
“Congratulations to HAL & ADA for successful induction of the indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet,” Parrikar tweeted.
IAF has today raised the first squadron of Tejas with the induction of two aircraft into the force and plans to put the LCA in combat role by 2017. Two LCA Tejas have been handed over by HAL to ‘Flying Daggers’ 45, the name of the first squadron of the LCA.
The induction comes at a time when IAF desperately needs replacement for its MiG 21s. IAF has a depleting fighter aircraft strength, and while Tejas has been designed for only light combat, it will nevertheless provide a much needed boost to the air force.
Also read: Tejas: From specifications and weapons to variants – all you want to know
Tejas is said to be the world’s smallest lightweight, multi-role single engine tactical fighter aircraft. It is a single engined, light weight, highly agile, multi-role supersonic fighter.
Tejas has been developed in multiple variants – single-seat fighter and twin seat trainer variants – for IAF and Indian Navy. Tejas is being inducted into the IAF after being years decades into making.
