Rajasthan , India: In a historic event for India's defence forces, the Vice Chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force made history today by flying in the indigenously manufactured Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) Air Marshal AP Singh led the flight, with Vice Chief of the Army Staff, Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani, and Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, accompanying in the Tejas twin-seater. This unprecedented joint flight showcases the growing emphasis on cross-domain cooperation, highlighting how India's armed forces are working in unison to address modern security challenges. 

Their participation underscores India's commitment to advancing integrated defence capabilities and self-reliance, demonstrating the seamless integration of the country's land, sea, and air forces. This event is not only a testament to their leadership but also to India's indigenous defence manufacturing prowess. 

Tejas Takes Center Stage at Tarang Shakti 2024 

The flight took place over Jodhpur, coinciding with the Indian Air Force's exercise Tarang Shakti 2024. This exercise, India's first multinational event of its kind, aims to enhance interoperability and operational coordination among participating Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). The inclusion of the Tejas in this exercise underscores the critical role indigenous platforms play in modernizing India's defence infrastructure.

The Tejas, a symbol of the 'Make in India' initiative, is a state-of-the-art, multi-role fighter designed to meet the needs of India's armed forces while reducing reliance on foreign imports. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas reflects India's strides in self-sufficiency in defence technology. 

Vice Chiefs' Flight Demonstrates Cross-Domain Cooperation 

This flight marks the first time that Vice Chiefs from all three services have flown together, signifying a new era of integrated operations within India's defence framework. Their joint flight also served as an opportunity to interact with the forces participating in the exercise, both from India and the FFCs. This interaction further strengthens the ties between the services and promotes a unified approach to national security.

The Tejas, officially named in 2003, made its first flight in 2001 and entered service with the Indian Air Force in 2015. Currently, it is the smallest and lightest in its class of supersonic combat aircraft. The first Tejas squadron became operational in 2016, with the No. 45 Squadron IAF – Flying Daggers being the first to replace their MiG-21 Bisons with the Tejas. 

Tejas: A Key Player in India's Defence Modernization 

Tejas has three production variants: Tejas Mark 1, Mark 1A, and Tejas Trainer/Light Attack Aircraft. The Indian Air Force has placed an order for 123 Tejas aircraft and plans to procure 97 more, with the goal of ultimately having 324 aircraft across 18 squadrons. This includes the heavier Tejas Mark 2, currently under development, which will further enhance India's air combat capabilities.

The Vice Chiefs' flight in the Tejas during the Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise not only highlights India's advancements in defence technology but also serves as a powerful statement of the country's strategic vision for a self-reliant and integrated military. This historic event sets the stage for future collaborations and underscores the importance of indigenous platforms in safeguarding India's national security.