The Indian Air Force has reportedly suffered another setback after a HAL Tejas light combat aircraft was involved in an accident earlier this month. According to Indian media reports, the pilot managed to eject safely during the incident, but the aircraft sustained severe damage while attempting to land after a routine training sortie.
Early reports suggest a possible technical malfunction involving onboard systems. Other sources indicate that a brake failure after touchdown may have caused the jet to overshoot the runway, resulting in extensive airframe damage. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause, and a formal investigation is currently underway.
The accident is believed to have taken place at an operational or forward air base during a standard training mission. Due to the extent of the damage, reports indicate that the aircraft could be written off. Following the incident, the IAF has reportedly grounded its fleet of nearly 30 single seat Tejas jets to conduct detailed technical inspections and carry out a comprehensive safety review.
This marks the third reported loss of a Tejas fighter since its induction into service. The first crash occurred near Jaisalmer in March 2024 after a firepower demonstration, with the pilot escaping safely. A second incident took place during an aerobatic performance at the Dubai Airshow in November 2025, where pilot Namansh Syal lost his life after being unable to eject.
The latest development comes at a challenging time for the Tejas Mk1A programme, which has already faced delivery delays reportedly nearing two years. Despite this, India has placed significant orders for the platform, including a major contract worth INR 623.7 billion for 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft. The fighter is designed as a multi role platform capable of air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike missions.
The IAF has not yet released an official statement regarding the most recent crash.
