New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh): Operations of the Tejas light combat aircraft have been paused across the board after a recent runway episode prompted the Indian Air Force to initiate a fleet-wide safety sweep. All 35 jets currently in service are undergoing detailed technical scrutiny as investigators work to determine what went wrong earlier this month.
The move follows a February 7 incident at a forward base in the western sector, where a Tejas aircraft experienced difficulty during its take-off roll. As it gathered speed, the fighter reportedly drifted off course and overshot the runway, coming to a halt in soft ground nearby. The pilot sustained injuries but is out of danger.
Air Force sources said that until the exact trigger is identified, the entire fleet will remain subject to precautionary inspections. Engineers are examining key systems, including the landing gear structure, braking mechanisms and flight-control software. Metallurgical analysis of the undercarriage components is also part of the review. A formal Court of Inquiry has been convened to reconstruct the chain of events leading up to the incident.
Preliminary assessments indicate that the aircraft involved may have suffered structural damage significant enough to rule out repairs. If confirmed, it would be the third major Tejas-related loss since the fighter entered service in 2016. Earlier accidents include a 2024 crash near Jaisalmer in which the pilot ejected safely, and a 2025 mishap during an overseas air show that proved fatal.
Manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has termed the February 7 episode a ground-related technical occurrence rather than a crash. The company stated that it is collaborating closely with the Air Force to analyse data and implement corrective measures, adding that the Tejas has built a strong safety record over years of operational deployment.
The IAF had initially ordered 40 Tejas jets, of which 35 are currently active, with the remaining deliveries pending. In parallel, the force is awaiting induction of 180 improved Tejas Mark 1A aircraft, though the rollout timeline has faced delays. For now, restoring full operational confidence in the existing fleet remains the immediate priority.
