Another locally manufactured HAL Tejas fighter jet of the Indian Air Force has crashed during landing after completing a routine training sortie.
According to Indian authorities, the incident occurred as the aircraft was returning from a standard exercise. The pilot ejected safely using a parachute and did not sustain serious injuries.
However, the aircraft is believed to have suffered extensive damage and may be declared beyond repair.
Following the incident, the Indian Air Force ordered a high-level inquiry to determine the cause of the crash. Instructions have also been issued for a comprehensive inspection of all Tejas aircraft to assess whether any technical faults exist within the fleet.
The aircraft involved was one of 32 single-seat jets delivered to the Air Force by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The crash comes at a time when the Air Force is already facing delays in the delivery of the upgraded Tejas Mark 1A variant. India has placed orders for 180 such aircraft to strengthen its combat capabilities, but production timelines have experienced repeated setbacks.
This marks the third major incident involving the Tejas programme. In March 2024, a jet crashed near Jaisalmer, while in November 2025 another aircraft was involved in an accident during the Dubai Airshow, resulting in the pilot’s death.
In recent years, successive incidents involving Tejas jets have raised questions about India’s indigenous fighter aircraft programme and maintenance systems.
Analysts note that while the Air Force urgently requires new aircraft to enhance its strength, ensuring the safety and operational reliability of the existing fleet remains a significant challenge.
