Tejas is a fighter jet developed by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Tejas aircraft took its first flight in the year 2001. On 22 March 2016, it received the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC).
Tejas is a fighter jet developed by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It stands as a testament to India’s prowess in aerospace technology. Remarkably, Tejas aircraft can catch a top speed of 2,205 km/h.
1. Tejas is a compact and lightweight fighter aircraft with single-seat configuration. It is renowned for its innovative design. Moreover, the two-seat version of Tejas aircraft is used for training purposes. The Indian Navy also operates two-seater Tejas aircrafts.
2. The Tejas aircraft took its first flight in the year 2001. On 22 March 2016, it received the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC). Subsequently, the production of these aircrafts was started to meet the requirements of the Air Force.
3. Tejas is a 4.5 generation multi-role fighter jet. It is capable of both ground attacks and aerial combat missions.
4. To keep it lightweight, composite materials are used in the production. The compact design contributes to low radar detectability. In the year 2016, it was first included into Squadron No 45 of the Indian Air Force.
5. Indian Air Force currently operates 40 Tejas MK-1 aircrafts. The MK-1 model is an upgraded version of the Tejas. An order for 83 Tejas MK-1A aircraft has been placed at a cost of Rs 36,468 crore. The manufacturing of these aircrafts is overseen by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
6. The Indian Air Force is in the process of replacing the MiG-21 aircraft with the LCA Tejas Mark 1A aircraft. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme was launched in the 1980s with an aim of manufacturing indigenous aircrafts.
7. The Tejas aircraft has a weight of 5450 kilograms. It has the capacity to take-off with a weight of 13500 kilograms. Also, it has a remarkable range of 3000 kilometres.
8. Tejas can fly at a speed of 2,205 km/h. The aircraft is manufactured with materials like aluminium-lithium alloy, carbon-fibre composite, and titanium alloy.
9. For aerial combats, Tejas is armed with a variety of missiles including Python 5, Derby, Astra BVRAAM, Vympel R-77, and Vympel R-73.
10. For ground attacks, Tejas can be equipped with missiles like Kh-59ME TV Guided Stand Off Missile, Kh-59MK Laser Guided Stand Off Missile, Anti-Ship Missile, Kh-35, and Kh-31 missiles.
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