Tejas MK-1A fighter aircraft takes off for the first time in Nashik, Rajnath Singh says – my chest swells with pride

News Topical, Digital Desk : Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today inaugurated the Tejas LCA MK-1A fighter aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics' new production facility in Nashik. The Defence Minister also inaugurated the 'third production line of LCA MK1A' and the 'second production line of HTT-40 aircraft'. The Tejas MK-1A flew for the first time from Nashik today. This production will enhance the overall strength and capability of the Indian Air Force. Rajnath Singh witnessed the first flight of these fighter aircraft today. He said that his chest swelled with pride today.

8 aircraft will be added to the Air Force annually from Nashik

Tejas fighter jets are already being produced at two existing plants in Bengaluru, producing 16 aircraft annually. The Nashik line is the third production unit. This plant, established with an investment of over ₹150 crore, will add eight more aircraft annually, increasing HAL's production capacity to 24 aircraft per year.

My chest swells with pride – Rajnath Singh

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Union Minister Rajnath Singh said that this land of Nashik is not only a symbol of faith, but also of self-reliant India and capability. On one hand, there is faith here, while on the other hand, the glorious campus of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited on this very land of Nashik also stands as a symbol of the nation's defense power. Singh said, "Today, when I saw the flight of Sukhoi-30, LCA and HTT-40 aircraft manufactured in Nashik Division, my chest swelled with pride. The flight of those jets was India's 'flight of self-reliance' in the defense sector.

Now we are manufacturing defence sector items in India – Rajnath Singh

The Defense Minister said that whatever we used to buy from abroad, we are now manufacturing it in our country. India has made tremendous progress in all areas: fighter aircraft, missiles, engines, and electric welfare systems.

Now a strong place in space too

Rajnath Singh said, "Today we have strengthened our position in space as well. Today, our aerospace industry is also showing rapid growth. Under Make in India, we have taken the initiative to encourage local manufacturing and production of aerospace equipment.

Know the specialty of Tejas MK-1A

The Tejas LCA Mk1A is a more advanced, multi-role fighter aircraft designed to replace the Indian Air Force's MiG-21 aircraft. The Mk1A is an advanced version of the Tejas, featuring several key improvements, including improved combat avionics and air-to-air refuelling capability. 

Capable of ground attack and sea assault missions

The aircraft is a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter capable of air defense, ground attack, and maritime strike missions. It uses over 64 percent indigenous content. The Tejas Mk1A features an advanced mix of weapons and payloads optimized for diverse missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance.

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