Tejas crash news: IAF grounds fleet after third accident; Dubai Airshow, HAL Mk-1A delays

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has temporarily grounded its fleet of Tejas light combat aircraft following a recent incident where one of the jets overshot the runway. This incident marks the third accident involving Tejas aircraft in just two years, raising concerns about the safety and reliability of the fleet. The decision to ground the aircraft is a precautionary measure to conduct thorough technical checks and ensure the airworthiness of the jets before they are returned to service. The Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been a significant part of India's defense modernization efforts, but the repeated accidents could impact its credibility and future procurement plans. Additionally, these developments come at a time when the IAF is preparing for the Dubai Airshow, which will showcase its advanced capabilities and military technology. The grounding of the Tejas fleet, coupled with ongoing delays in the HAL Mk-1A program, raises questions about the progress of India's indigenous defense initiatives and their ability to meet operational needs in a timely manner.