Rajasthan

• 13 Mar 2024

Tejas Crashes Near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan

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.