Dubai: A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, developed by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), crashed on Friday during the final day of the Dubai Air Show. The incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. (local time) at the Al Maktoum International Airport.
Videos from the event show the aircraft performing high-G manoeuvres moments before it suddenly pitched downward and crashed, bursting into flames on impact. Emergency response teams acted swiftly and brought the fire under control within minutes.
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported among spectators or ground crew. However, no ejection was observed from the cockpit before the impact, leaving the pilot’s condition uncertain at the moment. Officials are awaiting a formal statement from the Indian Air Force (IAF).
A joint investigation involving UAE authorities and the Indian Air Force is expected to begin soon to determine the cause of the crash.
This marks the second loss of a Tejas aircraft since 2015, although the indigenous fighter jet continues to maintain a strong overall safety and performance record. The Tejas program remains a crucial component of India’s broader push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
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