SOURCE: AFI
Jitendra J. Jadhav, the architect behind the Tejas fighter aircraft’s Initial Operational Clearance (IOC), has assumed the mantle of Director General at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). As the agency spearheads India’s ambitious military aircraft development programs, Jadhav’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of Indian aviation.
ADA, established in 1984, has been responsible for the development of the Tejas light combat aircraft, which is currently in service with the Indian Air Force. Now, under Jadhav’s leadership, the agency will focus on developing the Tejas Mark 2 and the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), as well as the twin-engine deck-based fighter (TEDBF) for the Indian Navy.
One of the immediate priorities for Jadhav will be overseeing the first flight of the LCA Air Force Mk2, which is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025. Additionally, the agency is working towards rolling out the AMCA, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
Jadhav’s experience extends beyond the Tejas program. As the Director of CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories, he played a pivotal role in reviving the SARAS project, certifying the Hansa-NG flying trainer, and developing high-altitude solar-powered platforms. His contributions to Indian aviation have been significant, and his appointment as Director General of ADA is expected to further accelerate the country’s aerospace capabilities.