IAF Tejas Jet Crashes, Fleet Grounded for Inspections

A Tejas fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed at a frontline airbase on February 7 during a training sortie, suffering major structural damage after overshooting the runway due to a suspected brake malfunction, according to sources familiar with the matter. The pilot ejected safely and sustained no serious injuries, but the aircraft is likely to be written off.

The incident occurred as the jet returned to base following a routine training mission. In response, the Indian Air Force grounded its fleet of approximately 30 single-seat Tejas aircraft to perform comprehensive technical inspections, aiming to identify any potential systemic issues. Officials have not released an official statement on the accident, and a court of inquiry is expected to investigate the cause further.

This marks the third accident involving the Tejas since its induction into the Indian Air Force in 2016. The first took place in March 2024 near Jaisalmer, where a Tejas crashed during an operational training sortie after participating in a firepower demonstration. "One Tejas aircraft of the Indian Air Force met with an accident at Jaisalmer today during an operational training sortie. The pilot...