IAF Chief Flies Army Chief in Tejas Mk-1, Marking a Historic First

New Delhi, February 9: In a landmark event for India’s defense forces, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh piloted a Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet with Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi as the co-pilot. This marks the first time an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief has flown the Army Chief in an indigenous combat aircraft.

The Tejas Mk-1, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, is a fourth-generation light combat aircraft known for its agility and advanced avionics. Its induction into the IAF represents a significant step toward self-reliance in defense production.

However, before this milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also flew in a Tejas Mk-1, demonstrating the government’s confidence in the aircraft. In November 2023, he took a sortie for 30 mins in the fighter jet in Bengaluru, becoming one of the few global leaders to fly in a domestically built aircraft. His flight reinforced Tejas’ role in India’s defense strategy and enhanced its international standing.

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The Tejas program represents a major milestone in India’s defense aviation industry. Designed for multi-role operations, the aircraft boasts advanced radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and precision-guided weaponry. Its successful deployment in various exercises and has demonstrated its combat readiness.

Whereas, with planned upgrades, including the forthcoming Tejas Mk-1A and the more advanced Tejas Mk-2, India aims to strengthen its indigenous fighter fleet and reduce reliance on foreign aircraft.

This historic flight, featuring the Army and Air Force Chiefs as pilot and co-pilot, not only highlights India’s military cohesion but also reaffirms the nation’s confidence in its homegrown fighter jets, paving the way for a more self-reliant defense ecosystem.