Modi's Historic Flight in Indigenous Fighter Jet Boosts India's Defense Technology

Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first head of government to fly in an indigenously developed fighter aircraft, the Tejas. The sortie lasted 30 minutes and took place in Bengaluru. The twin-seat fighter jet is fully designed, developed, and manufactured in India, capable of offensive air support and ground attack roles. The Indian Air Force has already inducted the first version of the aircraft, and deliveries of the LCA Mk 1A will begin in February 2024. The Tejas will become the largest fleet of fighter aircraft operated by the IAF, with two squadrons currently operational. Modi also visited the Tejas production facilities and viewed other indigenous helicopters.