News Analysis India

Tag: Tejas

  • Raveena Tandon’s ‘Karmma Calling’ To Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Sam Bahadur’: Must-Binge Series And Films To Spice Up Your Long Weekend | Movies News

    The anticipated long weekend is upon us, inviting you to indulge in a much-awaited marathon of patriotic, romantic, action-packed thrillers, and suspenseful gems that have accumulated in your watchlist. No need to spend precious time searching for your favorites – we’ve prepared a curated list for you to dive into instantly. So, seize the opportunity, check off your bucket list before the day concludes, all while enjoying your snacks and snug blankets.

    This compilation is a definite must-binge to maximize the enjoyment of the extended weekend.

    Karma Calling: Indulge in the opulent world of ‘Karma Calling’ on Disney+ Hotstar this weekend! Starring Raveena Tandon, this series promises a riveting blend of revenge, deception, and betrayals. With massive grandeur, scale, and a glamorous outlook, it’s set to be your ‘guilty pleasure’ watch. As you prepare your snacks and gather your favorite people, ‘Karma Calling’ is ready to leave you craving for more. Don’t miss the debut of this series on January 26, 2024, offering a captivating narrative adapted and directed by Ruchi Narain of ‘Guilty’ fame. Get ready for a binge-worthy weekend filled with intrigue and drama!

    Indian Police Force: Prepare for an adrenaline-packed weekend with ‘Indian Police Force’ on Prime Video! Created and directed by Rohit Shetty and Sushwanth Prakash, this gripping police procedural stars Sidharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, and Vivek Oberoi. Set in Shetty’s Cop Universe, the series follows Delhi Police Officer Kabir Malik as he faces off against the nefarious Zarar on the path of terrorism. Brace yourself for a thrilling chase, witnessing the relentless pursuit of justice and the sacrifices made in the line of duty. Don’t miss the action-packed drama that unfolds in this must-watch series.

    Kabhi Tum Kabhi Hum Nahi The: Dive into the depth of emotions of “Kabhi Tum Kabhi Hum Nahi The” on Pocket FM this weekend. Virat and Vedika’s marriage of necessity unfolds into a complex tale of unrequited love and silent sacrifices. Virat, rejected by Damini due to illness, finds an unexpected connection with Vedika. Despite the physical distance, Vedika’s sincere love for Virat remains unwavering. A story of duty, societal expectations, and unspoken emotions, this gripping audio series explores the intricacies of relationships. As you unwind on the long weekend, let “Kabhi Tum Kabhi Hum Nahi The” regale you with emotions, only on Pocket FM.

    Warso: Embark on a captivating cinematic journey with “Warso,” a Gujarati web series directed by Abhinn and Manthan. Explore the fading world of Patola weaving, unveiling the challenges faced by talented weavers. Follow Hem (Gaurav Paswala), an ambitious individual choosing personal dreams over family tradition. Unexpectedly inheriting his family’s 900-year-old Patola weaving legacy, Hem grapples with the dilemma of duty versus dreams. “Warso” entertains while shedding light on endangered traditional art forms. Experience Hem’s journey and the rich tapestry of Patola weaving, a unique blend of entertainment and cultural exploration. Catch this heartfelt narrative exclusively on ShemarooMe.

    Killer Soup: Get ready for a weekend filled with dark humor and suspense as “Killer Soup” takes you on a twisted ride in the fictional Mainjur. Watch Konkona Sen Sharma’s Swathi, a nurse-turned-chef, as she concocts a plan to replace her husband with a squint-eyed lookalike. Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, this black comedy crime thriller promises chaotic twists and stellar performances by Manoj Bajpayee. With its unique plot and unexpected turns, “Killer Soup” on Netflix is ​​the binge-worthy treat you need this weekend.

    The Legends Of Hanuman Season 3: Immerse yourself in the divine tales of “The Legends Of Hanuman Season 3” on Disney+ Hotstar. This animated series explores the enduring bond between Lord Rama and his devoted companion Hanuman. In the latest season, witness Hanuman’s growth as a leader, inspiring resilience on the battlefield. The improved animation and character design, coupled with astute storytelling, make this season visually impactful. As the battle unfolds, follow the triumphs and challenges faced by Shree Ram, Ravan, and the resilient Sita. For a spiritual and captivating weekend binge, join Hanuman on his epic journey of devotion and leadership.

    Mushqil Bada Ye Pyaar Hai: Add Pocket FM’s popular audio series ‘Mushqil Bada Ye Pyaar Hai’ to your weekend must-binge list for an immersive audio experience. Writer Tarun Jangid weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and destiny with Naina and Kartik at its core. As their story unfolds amid secrets and mysteries, Naina who was traumatized by the demons of her past unexpectedly meets Kartik, whose presence in her is like a breath of fresh air. An ironic twist with Aaryan and his feelings for Naina, Kartik’s brother and Naina’s childhood friend, adds drama to the story. The unexpected turn of Kartik’s demise brings heartbreak, pushing Naina into marriage with Aryan—an exploration of love’s resilience. With dynamics of love, jealousy, suspense, and poignant twists, this audio series promises an immersive weekend of gripping storytelling.

    Cubicles Season 3: Embark on the corporate journey with ‘Cubicles Season 3’ on SonyLiv! Follow Piyush as he navigates challenges as Team Lead, juggling work and friendships in this relatable workplace series. With engaging narratives and familiar scenarios, the show promises a weekend binge full of laughs and insights. Starring Abhishek Chauhan, Badri Chavan, Ayushi Gupta, Niketan Sharma, Ketaki Kulkarni, and Nimit Kapoor, the chaotic yet endearing world of ‘Cubicles’ is set to captivate your streaming experience. Don’t miss the latest season’s perfect blend of humor, camaraderie, and workplace drama!”

    Tiger 3: Gear up for a power-packed weekend with ‘Tiger 3’ on Prime Video! Salman Khan roars back as Tiger, defending family and nation against a vengeful enemy’s plot. With high-octane action and thrilling sequences, this film is a treat for action enthusiasts. Join Tiger and Zoya, played by Katrina Kaif, as they face a harrowing personal threat from a vengeful terrorist, portrayed by Emraan Hashmi. ‘Tiger 3’ is a gripping installment in the YRF Spy Universe, delivering edge-of-your-seat suspense and adrenaline-pumping moments.

    Sam Bahadur: Embark on an unforgettable weekend journey with ‘Sam Bahadur’ on Zee5. Portrayed by Vicky Kaushal, witness the extraordinary life of India’s first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the historical war drama delves into the geopolitical shaping of India’s borders, promising an engaging narrative. With a stellar cast, including Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra, this film, releasing on January 26, 2024, is a captivating exploration of the high and low points in the life of a legendary military figure.

    The Kerala Story: Experience the gripping saga of ‘The Kerala Story’ on Zee5, a box office sensation that delves into the life of Shalini Unnikrishnan amid religious terrorism. This film offers a compelling narrative that is a must-watch for your weekend binge. Directed by Sudipto Sen and featuring an ensemble cast including Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, and Siddhi Idnani, it promises to be a thought-provoking addition to your watchlist. Don’t miss the chance to witness the riveting tale unfold on your screen!

    Tejas: Embark on an exhilarating journey with ‘Tejas’ on Zee5 this weekend! Witness the extraordinary life of Air Force pilot Tejas Gill, portrayed by Kangana Ranaut. This series, aimed at inspiring pride in India’s valiant soldiers, offers grandeur, scale, and a glamorous outlook. With a captivating storyline, ‘Tejas’ is a binge-worthy addition to your watchlist, promising action, intrigue, and a glimpse into the resilience of our armed forces. Don’t miss out on the grandeur and thrill this series has to offer!

  • Indian Air Force pushes for indigenisation, keen to induct 100 LCA Tejas fighters

    Express News Service

    NEW DELHI: In a major push for indigenous fighters, the Indian Air Force is working on a proposal to induct the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

    Sources confirmed that the IAF is keen on inducting close to 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters for which a plan is being worked out within the air force.

    The proposal is to be presented before the government subsequently.

    This IAF plan is to increase the profile of indigenous combat platforms. It is part of a long term plan to not only add resources for HAL to keep its assembly lines alive but also add more indigenously manufactured combat systems, sources added.

    These aircraft will replace the ageing squadrons of MiG 21 fighter jets.

    Once this order is completed in the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes.

    The decision followed the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari’s review of the status of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme at the Air Headquarters on Wednesday. Also in attendance were senior functionaries from the Ministry of Defence, DRDO, HAL and ADA.

    ALSO READ | LCA Tejas successfully test-fires ASTRA

    The Air Force chief had brought out that the LCA has been the flag bearer of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) efforts towards indigenisation of its aircraft fleet. Given the nature of this project of national importance, it is required that all stakeholders adopt a collaborative approach towards its success,” he said.

    The first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF Squadron to induct the Tejas was No 45 Squadron, the ‘Flying Daggers’. Over the years, the squadron progressed from Vampires to Gnats and then onto the MiG-21 Bis, before being equipped with Tejas.

    Tejas is a multi-role platform designed to undertake the air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles. The LCA Mk-1A will have updated avionics, as well as an Active Electronically Steered Radar, updated Electronic Warfare suite and a Beyond Visual Range missile capability. The new variant will be capable of firing a number of weapons from increased stand-off ranges.

    As per the IAF, during the review, representatives of HAL assured the CAS of the timely delivery of the contracted twin-seaters in the coming months. Further to the LCA Mk 1, 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft have also been contracted by the IAF in 2021. The Chairman & Managing Director of HAL assured those present that the deliveries of this advanced variant of the LCA would commence by February 2024.

    While complimenting HAL, the Air Force chief indicated that based on these assurances, the LCA Mk 1A could be inducted in a newly raised squadron in one of the IAF’s operational bases, early next year.

    “With timely deliveries of the more capable variant, the LCA Mk 1A is likely to see increased deployments at forward bases, besides participation in international exercises in the days to come,” he added.

    NEW DELHI: In a major push for indigenous fighters, the Indian Air Force is working on a proposal to induct the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

    Sources confirmed that the IAF is keen on inducting close to 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters for which a plan is being worked out within the air force.

    The proposal is to be presented before the government subsequently.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8052921-2’); });

    This IAF plan is to increase the profile of indigenous combat platforms. It is part of a long term plan to not only add resources for HAL to keep its assembly lines alive but also add more indigenously manufactured combat systems, sources added.

    These aircraft will replace the ageing squadrons of MiG 21 fighter jets.

    Once this order is completed in the stipulated 15 years, the IAF will have 40 LCA, over 180 LCA Mark-1A and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 planes.

    The decision followed the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari’s review of the status of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme at the Air Headquarters on Wednesday. Also in attendance were senior functionaries from the Ministry of Defence, DRDO, HAL and ADA.

    ALSO READ | LCA Tejas successfully test-fires ASTRA

    The Air Force chief had brought out that the LCA has been the flag bearer of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) efforts towards indigenisation of its aircraft fleet. Given the nature of this project of national importance, it is required that all stakeholders adopt a collaborative approach towards its success,” he said.

    The first indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) was inducted in July 2016. The first IAF Squadron to induct the Tejas was No 45 Squadron, the ‘Flying Daggers’. Over the years, the squadron progressed from Vampires to Gnats and then onto the MiG-21 Bis, before being equipped with Tejas.

    Tejas is a multi-role platform designed to undertake the air defence, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles. The LCA Mk-1A will have updated avionics, as well as an Active Electronically Steered Radar, updated Electronic Warfare suite and a Beyond Visual Range missile capability. The new variant will be capable of firing a number of weapons from increased stand-off ranges.

    As per the IAF, during the review, representatives of HAL assured the CAS of the timely delivery of the contracted twin-seaters in the coming months. Further to the LCA Mk 1, 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft have also been contracted by the IAF in 2021. The Chairman & Managing Director of HAL assured those present that the deliveries of this advanced variant of the LCA would commence by February 2024.

    While complimenting HAL, the Air Force chief indicated that based on these assurances, the LCA Mk 1A could be inducted in a newly raised squadron in one of the IAF’s operational bases, early next year.

    “With timely deliveries of the more capable variant, the LCA Mk 1A is likely to see increased deployments at forward bases, besides participation in international exercises in the days to come,” he added.

  • LCA Tejas aircraft emerges as top choice for Malaysia’s fighter jet programme

    By PTI

    NEW DELHI: India’s Tejas light combat aircraft has emerged as the top choice for Malaysia as the Southeast Asian nation looks at replacing its ageing fleet of fighter jets and the two sides are holding negotiations to take forward the procurement process.

    Malaysia has narrowed down on the Indian aircraft notwithstanding stiff competition from China’s JF-17 jet, South Korea’s FA-50 and Russia’s Mig-35 as well as the Yak-130 plane, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), R Madhavan, told PTI in an interview.

    As part of the package, India has offered to set up an MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) facility in Malaysia for its Russian-origin Su-30 fighter fleet as it is facing difficulties in procuring spares for the aircraft from Russia in view of Western sanctions against Moscow.

    “I am very confident about it,” Madhavan said when asked whether the mega-deal would be closed soon.

    The top executive of the state-run aerospace behemoth said if the deal is sealed, then it will give a “very good signal” to other prospective buyers of the aircraft and boost its overall export potential.

    “It (negotiation) is almost in the final stages. We are the only country which is offering them the support for their Su-30 aircraft as well as other than Russia, we are the only one who can support them to the extent that they require for that fleet,” Madhavan said.

    It is learnt that the Chinese JF-17 was cheaper but it could not match the technical parameters of the Tejas Mk-IA variant and the offer of maintenance of the Su-30 fleet as proposed by India.

    A team of high-ranking officials and experts is expected to visit India soon to take forward the procurement process.

    Madhavan said Tejas is a much superior aircraft compared to JF-17 and FA-50 and that the selection of the Indian aircraft would provide Malaysia with the option to go in for future upgrades of the fleet.

    Tejas, manufactured by HAL, is a single-engine and highly agile multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft capable of operating in high-threat air environments.

    In February last year, the defence ministry sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with HAL for the procurement of 83 Tejas fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

    India has started work on the MK 2 version of the Tejas as well as on an ambitious USD 5 billion project to develop a fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

    “We actually are the only one who covered everything that they require and we met their budget requirements as well,” Madhavan said.

    “Nobody will offer them upgrades so fast as we would offer. They will have an alternative available in Tejas Mark 2 and they can even think of AMCA,” the HAL chief added.

    The number of aircraft that Malaysia is looking at procuring is not immediately clear.

    He said the HAL is going to maintain the same level of services to Malaysia as it has been giving to the Indian Air Force.

    Asked whether the supply of Tejas jets to the IAF will be impacted, if the HAL wins the Malaysian contract, Madhavan said production of the aircraft would be ramped up depending on the requirement.

    According to the plan, the HAL would start delivering the jets (Mk-IA variant) to the IAF in 2025 and all 83 jets will have to be handed over by 2030.

    Madhavan said, if the deal with Malaysia is sealed, then it will signal the acceptability of the aircraft which would result in the opening up of many other options.

    “We now have a very good platform. It is the best in this category,” he said.

  • Bengaluru: IAF Chief flies sortie in LCA Tejas fighter jet during HAL visit

    By PTI

    BENGALURU: Indian Air Force (IAF) Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria flew in an initial operational clearance (IOC) standard Light Combat Aircraft Tejas during his visit to the city, the Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) visited IAF units and flight test establishments and facilities of DRDO and HAL at Bengaluru on August 23 and 24, an official release said.

    “During his visit to Bengaluru, CAS flew in an IOC LCA Tejas,” it said.

    The IAF also tweeted the pictures and said Bhadauria flew a sortie in a Tejas MK1 aircraft.

    During his visit to Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), he was given an overview of ongoing projects and briefed on progress of operational trials.

    During his interaction with personnel, he spoke of the unique and challenging role of ASTE, noted its laudable achievements and re emphasised the need for staying ahead of the curve in order to leverage its expertise in delivering the requirements of IAF Operational units.

    The CAS also visited Software Development Institute (SDI), the unit tasked for undertaking development of avionics software.

    During the visit, he noted that the sustained focus on critical projects by the Institute had contributed significantly in increasing the operational and functional capability of IAF.

    He outlined his vision for SDI to move towards software indigenisation for integration of various weapons on IAF aircraft and achieving self-reliance in enhancing combat potential, it added.

    As part of the visit, CAS met and interacted with the test crew and engineers of Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

    CAS underscored the crucial role of both the establishments in furthering the shared goal of building an indigenous aviation industry capability of meeting our future requirements, the release said.

  • Suryakirans, Sarang and Tejas to take part in Lanka Air Force’s 70th anniversary celebrations

    By PTI
    NEW DELHI: Suryakirans, Sarang and Light Combat Aircraft Tejas will participate in an air show in Colombo from March 3 to 5 as part of the 70th-anniversary celebrations of the Sri Lankan Air Force, the Indian Air Force said on Saturday.

    The IAF’s aerobatic display teams, the fixed wing ‘Suryakirans’ and rotary wing ‘Sarang’, along with Tejas arrived at Colombo on Saturday.

    “Suryakirans, Sarang and LCA Tejas will participate in an air show at Galle Face, Colombo, scheduled from March 3 to 5 as part of the 70th-anniversary celebrations of SLAF,” the IAF said in a statement.

    The IAF and SLAF have seen active exchanges and interactions for a number of years in diverse fields like training, operational exchanges and professional military education courses.

    “IAFs participation in the 70th-anniversary celebration of SLAF is a further manifestation of the strong professional bonds that the two air forces share,” the IAF said.

    The IAF Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) had earlier toured Sri Lanka in 2001 for the 50th-anniversary celebrations of SLAF.

    As the IAF aircraft take to the skies of Colombo to mark the event, they will script another significant chapter in the traditionally strong IAF-SLAF ties, it added.

  • Railways to roll out Tejas sleeper coaches; 500 to be manufactured in FY 21-22

    By PTI
    NEW DELHI: The railways will roll out Tejas sleeper type trains from February 15 with the introduction of the Agartala Rajdhani Special train, the ministry said on Friday.

    The railways has decided to replace the rake of Agartala-Anand Vihar Terminal Special Rajdhani Express with Tejas Sleeper coaches with upgraded facilities.

    It will offer better connectivity with the national capital.

    “Provided with smart features, the coaches of this New Sleeper Type Tejas Train will offer best in class travel experience. The start of the Tejas service is planned for February 15,” the railways said in a statement.

    With the introduction of this modern Tejas Sleeper type train for long distance journey, the Indian Railway is making a paradigm shift in the travel experience for the passengers, it said.

    It is planned that 500 such Tejas type Sleeper coaches will be manufactured at Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and Modern Coach Factory (MCF), production units of Indian Railways in FY 21-22 which will gradually replace the premium long distance trains over Indian Railways network, the statement read.

    The Tejas type Sleeper coaches have automatic plug door, stainless Steel Under-frame, bio-vacuum toilet system, air suspension bogies, fire alarm, detection and suppression system and other smart features.

  • Deal done: Government formally seals Rs 48,000 crore pact to procure 83 Tejas LCA from HAL

    By PTI
    BENGALURU: The government on Wednesday formally sealed the Rs 48,000 crore deal to procure 83 Tejas LCA from state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, a deal described by the government as the ‘biggest’ Make in India defence contract.

    The contract was handed over by Director General (Acquisition), Ministry of Defence, V L Kantha Rao to Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, R Madhavan, at the inaugural ceremony of Aero India-2021, the country’s premier Defence and Aerospace show, here, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

    “I am very happy that HAL has got the orders for development of 83 new indigenous LCA (light combat aircraft) Tejas MK1A from Indian Air Force valued at more than Rs 48,000 crore.”

    “It is probably the biggest Make in India Defence contract till date,” Singh said.

    Tejas, manufactured by the HAL, is a single engine and highly agile multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft capable of operating in high-threat air environments.

    The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month approved the procurement of 73 Tejas Mk-IA variant and 10 LCA Tejas Mk-I trainer aircraft from the HAL to boost IAF’s combat prowess.

    Singh had on Tuesday inaugurated HAL’s second LCA-Tejas production plant here, and said Tejas is not only indigenous, but it is also better than its foreign equivalents on several parameters, besides being comparatively cheaper.

    According to Madhavan, the delivery of the Tejas LCA to the IAF under the Rs 48,000-crore deal will begin from March 2024 and around 16 aircraft will be rolled out annually till the completion of the total supply of 83 jets.

    He has also said that a number of countries have shown keen interest in procurement of Tejas and that the first export order is likely to come by in the next couple of years.

    Madhavan had on Tuesday said the phase-1 of the facility getting ready on 35 acres of land here will enable HAL to enhance its production capacity to 16 from the current eight aircraft every year.

    HAL said the 83 LCA Mk1A aircraft will be produced in two production lines here with over 500 plus production partners across India.

  • Tejas Mark II to roll out next year; high-speed trials in 2023: HAL Chief Madhavan

    By PTI
    NEW DELHI: A more potent version of the indigenous Tejas multirole combat jet featuring a much powerful engine, greater load carrying capability, next-generation electronic warfare system and an array of superior avionics is expected to be rolled out next year and its first high-speed trials will start in 2023, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd R Madhavan has said.

    He said the structural package and other work on the Tejas Mark II is progressing well and its production is likely to start somewhere around 2025.

    He said the upgraded version will have a bigger fuselage, longer range, better maintainability, greater load carrying capability, much stronger engine power and superior net-centric warfare systems.

    With increase in range and payload capability, Madhavan said the new variant will be much superior than Tejas Mark-IA, 73 of which are being procured by the Indian Air Force from the HAL under a Rs 48,000 crore deal that was approved by the government on January 13.

    “Tejas Mark II is likely to roll out by August-September of 2022 after that the first flight will take some time. The first high-speed trial of the jet will start in 2023 and we expect the production to start somewhere around 2025,” Madhavan told PTI.

    Asked about the weapon package for Tejas Mark II, Madhavan did not give a direct reply and said it will be decided at a later stage depending on requirement and changing dynamics.

    Tejas is a single engine and highly agile multi-role supersonic fighter manufactured by the state-run HAL.

    The aircraft is a potent platform for air combat and offensive air support with reconnaissance and anti-ship operations as its secondary roles.

    The Tejas Mk-1A will be equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar, beyond visual range missile, electronic warfare suite and air-to-air refuelling system.

    On the next generation advanced multi-role combat aircraft (AMCA) project, the HAL chairman and managing director said the aim was to implement the project under the framework of a special purpose vehicle also involving private sector players.

    India is working on the fifth-generation medium weight deep penetration fighter jet and the project is estimated to cost around USD 5 billion.

    Madhavan said the prototype of the aircraft is likely to be ready by 2026 and its production could start by 2030.

    He added that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was working on the timelines for the project.

    “It is still in the initial design stage. We are trying to get into a SPV route where HAL and DRDO will be partners and we will try to bring in some private players, at least two. We want them (private players) to have a slight majority (stakes) so that it does not become a government entity,” he said.

    Madhavan said the thinking has been that the private players could hold 50.5 per cent stakes in the venture so that it is deemed as private though there will be provisions for audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

    “What we are planning to do is to get the prototypes made by the HAL without going to any SPV route. Once we do that, then we will ask them (private players) to join hands. They will have to put in at least Rs 2,500 crore. We will put in Rs 2,500 crore as initial investment,” he said.

    Madhavan suggested that the implementation of the project under the SPV route will cut procedural delays.

    The HAL chairman and managing director said the Rs 48,000 crore Tejas project will significantly boost the aerospace sector in India and it will have ripple effects on implementation of various ambitious programmes.

    Madhavan said that Tejas Mark 1A jet has superior performance levels compared to China’s JF-17 combat aircraft as it has better engine, radar system, electronic warfare suit besides having edge on the overall technology.

  • Objective is to win future conflicts with home-made weapons: Gen Rawat on LCA Tejas order

    By ANI
    NEW DELHI: After the government on Wednesday approved a deal to procure 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said that it is a boost for the Centre’s Make in India initiative and that the ultimate objective is to reach a stage where the country can win conflicts with home-made weapon systems.

    “Our ultimate objective is to engage in and win future conflicts with home-made solutions,” Rawat said.

    “Our focus will remain on indigenisation and efforts to progressively support Atmanirbhar Bharat is our mission. We hope to see our Air Force touch the sky with glory with aircraft that has major components including engines that are Made in India,” Gen Bipin Rawat said.

    READ HERE: Biggest indigenous procurement, CCS approves procurement of 83 HAL manufactured fighters costing Rs 45,000 crore

    The Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about Rs 48,000 crores to buy 83 LCA Tejas Mark1A fighter jets.

    The deal to be signed in the next few days with HAL would strengthen the Indian Air Force’s fleet of homegrown fighter jet ‘LCA-Tejas’ and overall combat capability.”

    This deal will be a game-changer for self-reliance in the Indian defence manufacturing,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted to announce the final approval given to the mega-deal.

    Singh said that the indigenous content of the LCA-Tejas was 50 per cent in the MK1A variant and it would be enhanced to 60 per cent by the end of the programme.

    The deal would be a major boost for the IAF and help it to arrest the fall in the number of its fighter aircraft squadrons.

    Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A variant is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern 4+ generation fighter aircraft. This aircraft, which is equipped with critical operational capabilities of Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Missile, Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite and Air to Air Refuelling (AAR), would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force. 

  • Biggest indigenous procurement, CCS approves procurement of 83 HAL manufactured fighters costing Rs 45,000 crore

    Express News Service
    NEW DELHI: In a big boost to the indigenous defence manufacturing, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday approved the procurement of 83 indifenously manufacture Light Combat Aircraft. Ministry of Defence stated officially, “The Cabinet met under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister in New Delhi on 13 January and has approved procurement of 73 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter aircrafts and 10 LCA Tejas Mk-1 Trainer aircrafts at the cost of Rs. 45,696 crore along with Design and Development of Infrastructure sanctions worth Rs.1,202 crore.” Elaborating on the capabilities of LCA Mk-1 over the current variant of LCA, the MoD listed, “This aircraft is equipped with critical operational capabilities of Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Missile, Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite and Air to Air Refuelling (AAR) would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force, IAF.” These will add to operational roles, enhance the combat ability and maintainability.

    As per the plan, the first flight of the Tejas Mark 1A will take place by the end of 2022.

    The CCS chaired by PM Sh. @narendramodi today approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about 48000 Crores to strengthen IAF’s fleet of homegrown fighter jet ‘LCA-Tejas’. This deal will be a game changer for self reliance in the Indian defence manufacturing.
    — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) January 13, 2021

    DRDO initiated the programme of indigenous aircraft in 1983 and had obtained permission to initiate a programme to design and develop a Light Combat Aircraft. Indian Air force has two squadrons of LCA Tejas operational at present.

    Mr R Madhavan, CMD, HAL calling the decision as a big boost to the Tejas program has received a major shot in the arm in boosting the Atamanirbhar drive in the aerospace and aeronautics.

    Mr R Madhavan added, “The production rate for this increased requirement by IAF is being augmented by HAL from 8 to 16 aircraft per year through the creation of state-of-the-art new facility in Bengaluru.”

    LCA-Tejas program follows the system integrator model and has created a national aerospace ecosystem with the participation of approximately 560 companies from large to SMEs which encompass all the facets of aircraft design and manufacturing.

    “It is estimated that as the LCA MK1A program kicks-off, it will generate primary jobs to a tune of 5000 across the country. The programme will foster local industry and drives skill development of young Indian work force.” Added Mr R Madhavan. Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A variant is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern 4+ generation fighter aircraft. “It is the first “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)” category procurement of combat aircrafts with an indigenous content of 50% which will progressively reach 60% by the end of the programme.”, informed MoD. This decision is seen to act as a catalyst for the indigenous manufacturers, small and big. “About 500 Indian companies including MSMEs in the design and manufacturing sectors will be working with HAL in this procurement. The programme would act as a catalyst for transforming the Indian aerospace manufacturing ecosystem into a vibrant Atmanirbhar-self-sustaining ecosystem.”

    The Cabinet has also approved infrastructure development by IAF under the project to enable them handle repairs or servicing at their base depot so that the turnaround time would get reduced for mission critical systems and would lead to increased availability of aircraft for operational exploitation. This would enable IAF to sustain the fleet more efficiently and effectively due to availability of repair infrastructure at respective bases. The manufacturing of Light Combat Aircraft by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, HAL will give a further push to Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and boost indigenisation of defence production and the defence industry in the country.