PM Modi Soars to New Heights: A Thrilling Tejas Experience and India's Defense Triumphs

A thrilling display of confidence in India's indigenous capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently co-piloted the indigenous trainer version of the light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas in Bengaluru. The Prime Minister's aerial adventure took place during a visit to the defense manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), where he explored the intricacies of the Tejas manufacturing facilities.

The star of the show was the twin-seater aircraft, the first trainer version of Tejas manufactured by HAL, which had been handed over to the Indian Air Force on October 4. Prime Minister Modi, after the exhilarating flight that originated from HAL Airport and lasted several minutes, took to social media to share his excitement. Posting on X, he exclaimed, “Successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country’s indigenous capabilities, and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential.”

This remarkable event comes in the wake of the Union Cabinet's approval in 2021 for the procurement of 73 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter aircraft and 10 LCA Tejas Mk-1 trainer aircraft, amounting to a whopping Rs 45,696 Crore. The Indian Air Force, eyeing a total of 220 LCAs in its inventory, plans to procure an additional 97 aircraft from HAL, encompassing both single-seater fighters and trainers.

Undoubtedly, Prime Minister Modi has been a staunch advocate for the indigenous production of defense products. His government's efforts in boosting manufacturing within India and increasing exports have garnered international attention. During the Prime Minister's recent state visit to the United States, a significant development occurred as US defense giant GE Aerospace entered into a pact with HAL to jointly produce engines for the Mk-II-Tejas.

Highlighting the success of India's defense exports, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh declared in April that the country achieved an all-time high of ₹15,920 crores in 2022-2023. This achievement is a testament to the country's growing prowess in the defense sector.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, a substantial order of ₹36,468 crores has been placed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the delivery of 83 LCA Mk 1A Tejas aircraft, as reported by news agency PTI. The delivery of these cutting-edge Tejas aircraft is scheduled to commence by February 2024, marking a significant stride in enhancing India's defense preparedness and indigenization.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's aerial escapade on the Tejas aircraft symbolizes not just a personal feat but a broader celebration of India's capabilities in the defense sector. With ambitious procurement plans and increasing international interest, India's defense narrative is reaching new heights, solidifying its position as a key player in the global defense arena.