Former Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria has given a resounding endorsement to the export potential of India's indigenously developed light combat aircraft, the LCA-Tejas Mk1A.
The former Air Chief, who also has experience as a test pilot on the LCA-Tejas program, believes that the Tejas Mk1A, with its world-class capabilities and competitive pricing, is poised to make a significant mark in the global fighter jet market.
Bhadauria has described the LCA-Tejas Mk1A as a state-of-the-art fighter jet that stands out in its class, ranking among the top two aircraft globally in terms of technology and capabilities.
The multirole fighter, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been designed to perform a wide range of missions, from air-to-air combat to ground attack, demonstrating its versatility and capability.
His confidence in the Tejas Mk1A stems from his firsthand experience as a test pilot, where he has witnessed the aircraft's evolution and its exceptional performance capabilities.
He emphasized that the Tejas Mk1A is not only technologically sophisticated but also cost-effective, making it an attractive proposition for many countries looking to upgrade their air forces.
The former Air Chief Marshal pointed out that the Tejas Mk1A's modern design, indigenous development, and cost-effectiveness contribute to its strong export potential. He believes that the Tejas Mk1A is well-equipped to meet the defence needs of several countries, particularly those seeking a capable yet affordable fighter jet.
Several countries in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa have already expressed interest in the LCA-Tejas Mk1A, and India’s defence export policy is aligned with promoting indigenous platforms like the Tejas to friendly countries. This, coupled with Bhadauria’s call for increased focus on exports, suggests that the Tejas Mk1A is set to take flight in the international market.
