Make-in-India's Deadly New Warbird: Tejas MK-1A Jet Takes Maiden Flight

This special report focuses on a major leap in India's defence capabilities with the maiden flight of the indigenous Tejas Mark 1A fighter jet from Nashik, an event unveiled by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. An India Today report hailed the event, stating, 'This is not just a test flight. It's the start of a new era.' The 4.5 generation multi-role combat jet is a significant boost for the 'Make in India' initiative, with over 64% indigenous content. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has operationalised a third production line for the aircraft to fast-track deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has a combined order of 180 jets. These aircraft are set to replace the recently retired MiG-21 squadrons, bolstering the nation's air power for the future.