New Delhi, India: An Indian Air Force (IAF) HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft sustained significant damage during a training sortie on February 7, 2026, after encountering a problem while landing at a frontline air base, PTI reported. This marks the third incident involving a Tejas aircraft in recent years, following the March 2024 accident near Jaisalmer and the November 2025 Dubai Airshow crash.
The aircraft had completed a routine training mission when it experienced an issue on approach and rollout, leading to a runway excursion. The pilot ejected safely as a precautionary measure and escaped without serious injuries. Authorities confirmed that the fighter suffered substantial damage to its airframe, though there were no reports of casualties on the ground.
Following the incident, the IAF ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the precise cause. Technical teams have begun detailed examinations of the aircraft’s systems, including landing and braking mechanisms, to establish whether the incident stemmed from a mechanical malfunction, systems anomaly, or another operational factor. As part of established safety protocols, the service has also initiated comprehensive checks across sections of the Tejas fleet to rule out any systemic concerns.
The Tejas programme, developed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), remains central to the IAF’s fleet modernisation efforts. The latest runway incident comes at a time when the force is progressing with induction plans for the upgraded Mk1A variant, even as production timelines and technical milestones remain under close review.
Additionally, on February 5, 2026, industry reports confirmed that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) did not progress to the next stage of India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) stealth fighter programme after failing to clear the initial technical evaluation. This move marks a significant shift in the execution model of the project, which aims to deliver India’s first indigenous fifth-generation combat aircraft.
This is the first occasion that HAL, a state-owned aerospace and defence manufacturer, will not lead or participate in the prototype phase of one of India’s flagship combat aircraft programmes, emphasising a strategic pivot toward private sector leadership in high-technology defence projects.
Previous Incidents Involving Tejas
March 12, 2024 – Near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
On March 12, 2024, a Tejas aircraft crashed during an operational sortie near Jaisalmer. The pilot ejected safely. The incident marked the first accident involving the aircraft since its induction into service and led to a technical investigation.
November 21, 2025 – Dubai Airshow
On November 21, 2025, a Tejas aircraft participating in an aerial display at the Dubai Airshow was involved in a fatal accident during a manoeuvre at low altitude. The pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, was killed. A Court of Inquiry was instituted to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
