Army and Air Force Chiefs to Fly LCA Tejas Ahead of Aero India
In a significant demonstration of inter-service cooperation and support for indigenous defense technology, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi are scheduled to undertake a joint sortie in the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This event is planned for Sunday at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru, just before the commencement of the Aero India 2025 air show.
Showcasing Indigenous Defense Capabilities
The joint flight aims to highlight the Indian armed forces’ commitment to domestically developed military assets. The LCA Tejas, a product of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), represents a milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense technology.
Aero India 2025: A Platform for Indigenous Innovation
Aero India 2025, set to begin in Bengaluru, serves as a premier platform for showcasing advancements in aerospace and defense technologies. The joint sortie by the chiefs underscores the event’s emphasis on indigenous innovation and the armed forces’ endorsement of homegrown defense solutions.
LCA Tejas: Strengthening India’s Aerial Capabilities
The Indian Air Force has already inducted approximately 40 LCA Tejas aircraft and plans to acquire an additional 83 LCA Mark 1A variants in the near future. Despite minor delays due to supply chain challenges faced by engine manufacturer GE in the United States, the program remains a cornerstone of India’s efforts to modernize its air fleet with indigenous technology.
This collaborative flight by the Army and Air Force Chiefs not only symbolizes the unity between the services but also reinforces their collective commitment to advancing India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
