Rajasthan
Tejas Crashes Near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan
- 13 Mar 2024
- 2 min read
Why in News?
Recently, a light combat aircraft Tejas crashed near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan during an operational training sortie. It is the first such incident involving the indigenously-built jet.
- The pilot was ejected safely and no casualties were reported.
Key Points
- The crash took place around 100 km from the Pokhran desert where a mega war game 'Bharat Shakti' witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top military brass was underway.
- Military sources indicated that the Tejas jet was to be part of the exercise.
- The Tejas aircraft is a potent platform for air combat and offensive air support missions while reconnaissance and anti-ship operations are its secondary roles.
- It is manufactured by state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
- In February 2021, the defence ministry sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd for the procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Bharat Shakti
- It is a significant tri-Service exercise showcasing firepower by the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
- In the exercise named Bharat-Shakti at Pokhran Field Firing Range.
- Only indigenously developed weapon platforms and systems are included in this exercise.
- Top officers of the three forces including CDS General Anil Chauhan participated in the exercise.
- The concept of self-reliant India was seen during this exercise.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- It is an Indian public sector aerospace and defence company, headquartered in Bangalore.
- Established on 23 December 1940, HAL is one of the oldest and largest aerospace and defence manufacturers in the world.
- It is governed under the management of the Ministry of Defence.
