Army and IAF Chief to Fly LCA Tejas Trainer Sortie in Bengaluru

In a remarkable demonstration of jointness among the Indian Armed Forces and a strong endorsement of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal (ACM) AP Singh and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi are scheduled to fly a sortie in the trainer version of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru this Sunday, according to Defence officials.

A Symbol of Unity and Indigenous Strength

This symbolic sortie highlights the deep synergy and collaboration between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, showcasing the spirit of joint operations essential for modern warfare. Moreover, it serves as a powerful testament to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, with the LCA Tejas representing the pinnacle of India’s homegrown aerospace engineering under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Camaraderie Beyond Uniforms

Adding a personal touch to this historic event is the fact that both Gen Upendra Dwivedi and ACM AP Singh are coursemates from the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA). Their participation together not only reflects their lifelong camaraderie but also symbolizes the unity of purpose shared by the Indian Army and Air Force in securing the nation’s defence interests.

LCA Tejas: A Beacon of Aatmanirbharta

The LCA Tejas, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a multi-role, light-weight, supersonic fighter aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, advanced radar systems, and precision weaponry. Its induction into the Indian Air Force marks a significant leap towards self-reliance in defence technology and reducing dependency on foreign military platforms.

Looking Ahead

This joint sortie is expected to send a strong message of inter-service cooperation, technological prowess, and national pride. It reinforces the Armed Forces’ shared commitment to operational excellence, indigenous capability development, and the spirit of jointness that will define the future of India’s defense landscape.