SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) continues to bolster its training capabilities with the successful first flight of the fifth LCA-Tejas trainer aircraft, designated LT-5205. This milestone comes just weeks after the fourth trainer, LT-5204, took to the skies, signifying a significant ramp-up in production by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The IAF received its first LCA Tejas trainer aircraft in October 2023, marking a major step forward in pilot training for the indigenously developed light combat aircraft. Since then, HAL has delivered four additional trainers, including LT-5205, with all undergoing flight testing and scheduled for induction into the IAF.
HAL has a contract with the IAF to deliver a total of 18 twin-seater Tejas trainers. The company is on track to meet its commitment for the current fiscal year (FY 2023-24) with plans to deliver eight trainers by March 31st, 2024. The remaining ten trainers are expected to be progressively delivered by 2026-27.
The successful production and delivery of these trainers are crucial for the IAF’s Tejas program. With a robust training ecosystem in place, the IAF can efficiently train pilots on the Tejas platform, ensuring its optimal utilization in defending Indian airspace. Additionally, further orders from the IAF are anticipated, solidifying the Tejas’ position as a mainstay in the IAF’s fighter jet fleet.
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