WATCH | Tejas Mk1A Gets Water Cannon Salute After Maiden Test Flight In Nashik

The first Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft produced at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) Nashik complex successfully completed its maiden flight on Friday. The aircraft was rolled out following the formal

inauguration of the LCA and HTT-40 assembly lines by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.During the inauguration, HAL also showcased the HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft and the Su-30 MKI in flight. The Tejas Mk1A received a traditional water cannon salute after its successful test flight, marking a significant milestone for India's indigenous defence aviation program.

The government is trying to ensure that ten aircraft are ready by the end of this financial year. The target is 10 by March 31, roughly half a squadron, critically important as the IAF is short of fighter squadrons, being down to about 30 instead of the 40 it would like.

About Tejas Mk1A

The Tejas Mk1A features advanced avionics, a modern radar system, improved weapon capabilities, and a cutting-edge electronic warfare suite. With a top speed exceeding 2,200 km/h, it is designed for enhanced combat performance and operational flexibility.Last month, on September 25, the Ministry of Defence signed a Rs 62,370 crore contract with HAL for the supply of 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets -- 68 single-seater and 29 twin-seater trainer variants. The deal is expected to significantly boost the IAF’s operational strength.HAL officials said production of the LCA Mk-1A is gaining pace. The company recently received four GE-404 jet engines from the American manufacturer General Electric. These engines will power the first batch of aircraft.(With agency inputs)