New Delhi: The Indian Air Force has temporarily suspended operations of its Tejas fighter aircraft fleet following a runway incident earlier this month, sources indicated. All 35 jets currently in service are undergoing extensive technical inspections as a precautionary measure.
The step comes in the wake of a February 7 episode in which a Tejas aircraft encountered trouble during take-off from a forward airbase along the western sector. According to officials familiar with the development, the jet lost directional control while accelerating and veered off the runway, eventually sliding into a mud patch adjoining the strip.
Although the pilot of the single-seat fighter suffered injuries, he is reported to be safe. At the time of the incident, the aircraft was reportedly nearing take-off speed, typically well above 170 kmph.
With the precise cause yet to be established, the Air Force has initiated a comprehensive technical audit of the fleet. Inspections are focusing on critical components such as the landing gear assembly, including metallurgical checks of the undercarriage structure, the electromagnetic braking mechanism, and the aircraft’s onboard software systems. A Court of Inquiry has also been constituted to determine the sequence of events that led to the mishap.
Sources suggest that the aircraft involved may be declared beyond economic repair due to structural damage to its airframe. This would mark the third Tejas-related loss since the fighter was inducted into service in 2016. A previous crash occurred near Jaisalmer in March 2024, where the pilot ejected safely, while another incident during the 2025 Dubai Airshow claimed the life of a serving officer.
Meanwhile, state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which manufactures the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, has described the February 7 occurrence as a ground incident rather than a crash. In a statement, HAL said the event is being analysed as per established procedures and that it is coordinating closely with the Air Force to address the issue. The company also maintained that the Tejas platform has maintained a strong safety profile compared to many contemporary fighters worldwide.
Out of the 40 Tejas jets ordered in the initial batch, 35 are operational, with the remaining deliveries pending. The IAF is also awaiting induction of 180 upgraded Tejas Mark 1A variants, though the programme is currently running behind its original schedule.
