OPINION | Tejas Jet Crash Should Not Hinder India’s Fighter Development Programme

The LCA Mk-1 crash at the Dubai Air Show highlights the IAF's fighter jet shortage and reliance on indigenous programs.

Source : PTI

The Friday crash of the LCA Mk-1 during the Dubai Air Show occurred at a critical juncture for the Indian Air Force, which is currently facing a significant shortage in its fighter fleet. The Light Combat Aircraft, after four decades of development, had just joined the IAF fleet and was seen as a cornerstone of India's indigenous fighter development initiative. While such incidents are not uncommon, this particular event may undermine India's narrative of self-reliance in defence capabilities.