IAF Tejas Fighter Jet Damaged in Runway Overshoot Incident at Frontline Airbase
An Indian Air Force Tejas Light Combat Aircraft sustained significant damage to its airframe after overshooting the runway at a frontline airbase on February 7, according to authoritative sources. The incident occurred following what appears to be a suspected brake failure during landing procedures.
Pilot Ejects Safely as Aircraft Suffers Major Structural Damage
The pilot of the Tejas aircraft managed to eject safely from the damaged fighter jet, as confirmed by official reports. The aircraft was returning to its home base after completing a routine training sortie when the runway overshoot incident occurred. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene following the accident.
Complete Tejas Fleet Grounded for Extensive Technical Examination
In response to this serious incident, the Indian Air Force has taken the precautionary measure of grounding the entire fleet of approximately 30 single-seat Tejas jets. This grounding will allow for comprehensive technical scrutiny and safety inspections across all operational Tejas aircraft. The investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the brake failure and identify any potential systemic issues.
Third Major Incident Involving Tejas Aircraft Program
This marks the third significant accident involving Tejas jets in recent years:
- March 2024: A Tejas jet crashed near Jaisalmer during operational duties
- November 2025: A Tejas aircraft crashed during an aerial demonstration at the prestigious Dubai Airshow
- February 2026: The latest runway overshoot incident resulting in major airframe damage
Timing Coincides with HAL's Production Delays for Tejas Mark 1A Variant
This accident occurs during a critical period for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the manufacturer of Tejas aircraft. HAL has missed multiple deadlines for delivering the advanced Tejas Mark 1A variant to the Indian Air Force. The delays stem primarily from GE Aerospace's failure to meet engine supply timelines for powering the new jets.
The Ministry of Defence had previously signed a landmark Rs 48,000 crore agreement with HAL in February 2021 for the procurement of 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets. More recently, in September 2025, the defence ministry finalized another substantial deal worth Rs 62,370 crore with HAL for 97 additional Tejas MK-1A light combat aircraft.
Technical Capabilities of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft
The Tejas represents India's indigenous single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft designed to operate effectively in high-threat aerial environments. This advanced fighter platform has been specifically engineered to perform multiple critical missions including:
- Air defence and interception operations
- Maritime reconnaissance and surveillance missions
- Precision strike capabilities against ground and sea targets
The aircraft incorporates modern avionics, advanced radar systems, and sophisticated weapon integration capabilities, making it a crucial component of India's air defence strategy. The current grounding and investigation will provide valuable insights into enhancing the safety and reliability of this important indigenous defence asset.
