Tejas Mk1 Jet's BVR and Interceptor Capabilities to be Tested in the Field as IAF Redeploys First Squadron to Forward Airbase

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has redeployed its first squadron of Tejas Mk1 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) to a forward airbase in the western sector. This strategic move comes in response to the IAF's ongoing fighter jet shortage and aims to bolster its interceptor capabilities in the region.

The Tejas Mk1 squadron, previously stationed at Sulur in Tamil Nadu, will now be positioned closer to border areas, enhancing the IAF's ability to respond to potential threats.

This redeployment is significant because the Tejas Mk1 aircraft have been upgraded with Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile capabilities. These missiles, which were not part of the aircraft's initial configuration, allow the Tejas to engage targets at extended ranges, greatly increasing its combat effectiveness.

The IAF's confidence in deploying the Tejas Mk1 to a forward airbase underscores the progress of the indigenous fighter jet program.

The decision to relocate the "Flying Daggers" squadron is partly driven by the IAF's need to compensate for the retirement of older aircraft like the MiG-21, MiG-23, and MiG-27.

These retirements have led to a reduction in the number of operational fighter squadrons, creating a pressing need for capable interceptor aircraft. The Tejas Mk1, with its new BVR capabilities, is expected to fill this gap and play a crucial role in maintaining air superiority.

The forward airbase, the exact location of which remains undisclosed for strategic reasons, will also provide a real-world testing ground for the Tejas Mk1. The aircraft will be operating in diverse climatic and terrain conditions, allowing the IAF to further evaluate its performance and operational readiness.

This deployment represents a significant step forward for the Tejas program and demonstrates the IAF's commitment to developing and deploying indigenous defence technologies.

 

[SR]

Better make ww2 era propeller fighters like Brazil supertucano & install them with aesa radars, it will be cheap cost & quickly mass produced

 

[Andy S]

Better make ww2 era propeller fighters like Brazil supertucano & install them with aesa radars, it will be cheap cost & quickly mass produced

Modified spitfire will be great choice. Large no of them can be manufactured by Adani, Tata etc.

 

[GMR]

Better make ww2 era propeller fighters like Brazil supertucano & install them with aesa radars, it will be cheap cost & quickly mass produced

Better suggestion - IAF can raise a squarden of hang gliders and throw stones from sky on enemies..No engines, no hassles

 

[R. Singh]

Upgrade present MK-I IOC and FOC fighter jets to Tejas-1A standards asap and also arm them with recently offered AIM series of BVRAAMs to supplement Astra !

 

[Bhishma]

Better suggestion - IAF can raise a squarden of hang gliders and throw stones from sky on enemies..No engines, no hassles

Good startup idea. It will be super stealth. No radar signature.

 

[Sandeep]

This is good because our jets are better than the current Mig 21 jets that we currently use there. We will have longer range missile, better radar, better safety, reliable technology and better availability rate.

 

[Andy13]

Next 5 years will be make or break for Indian aerospace industry, particularly HAL. Other PSUs making missiles, ships are doing excellent. Here, IAF, Babus, DOD, HAL, DRDO, all need to pick up their game. Dunno why PMO is not getting the urgency.