Indian Air Force Grounds Tejas Fleet After Third Jet Crash

Mumbai: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has grounded its entire fleet of Tejas light combat jets following the third accident involving the aircraft. The pilot safely ejected during the latest incident and sustained no serious injuries.

According to Indian media reports, the crash occurred on February 7 during a routine training flight. Subsequently, the IAF grounded nearly 30 single-seat Tejas jets for technical inspections.

This marks the third accident involving the Tejas jets. The first incident took place in March 2024 near Jaisalmer, while the second occurred in November 2025 during the Dubai Airshow, resulting in the pilot’s death. Investigations into the November crash are still ongoing.

The accidents are also linked to delays in the Tejas Mk1A program, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) repeatedly postponing deliveries of upgraded jets due to disruptions in engine supply from GE Aerospace.

India’s defense authorities had signed a contract with HAL in February 2021 for 83 Mk1A jets worth ₹48,000 crore, followed by another deal in September 2025 for 97 additional jets worth ₹62,370 crore. Delivery of the full fleet of 180 Mk1A jets is currently running nearly two years behind schedule.

The Tejas is a single-engine, multi-role fighter designed for air defense, maritime surveillance, and offensive missions. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), it is built to operate in high-risk combat environments.

So far, the IAF has not released any official statement regarding the recent crash.