A Tejas fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed at the Dubai Airshow on Friday, November 21, 2025, during a flight display. The incident occurred around 2:10 pm local time at the Dubai World Central, Al Maktoum International Airport. This was the second crash involving the Tejas, with the first occurring in March 2024 near Jaisalmer.
Here are five key facts about the Tejas:
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Second Crash in Its History: The crash at the Dubai Airshow marks only the second crash of a Tejas fighter jet since its first test flight in 2001. The first incident occurred in March 2024 near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, during an operational training sortie. The pilot in the Jaisalmer incident ejected safely.
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Pilot Fatality: The pilot of the Tejas jet sustained fatal injuries in the Dubai Airshow crash. The IAF has expressed deep regret for the loss of life and stated that they stand firmly with the bereaved family.
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Demonstration Flight: The aircraft was performing an aerial display for a crowd at the Dubai Airshow when the crash occurred. Videos circulating online showed the fighter jet crashing mid-flight and exploding. Black smoke was seen rising from the crash site near the airport.
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Indigenous Design and Development: The Tejas is a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) developed by India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The LCA program was initiated by the Indian government in 1984, with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) established to manage the project. The Tejas was designed to replace the aging MiG-21 fighter jets in the IAF. The aircraft was officially named "Tejas," meaning "radiance" in Sanskrit, by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2003.
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Features and Capabilities: The Tejas is described as the lightest and smallest multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft in its class. It's a 4.5-generation, all-weather, multi-role fighter designed for offensive air support, close combat, and ground attack roles, as well as maritime operations. It is capable of carrying a variety of weaponry.
The Dubai Airshow is a biennial event held at Dubai World Central. The 2025 event, which ran from November 17-21, brought together over 1,500 exhibitors and featured over 200 aircraft. The show attracts industry professionals from around the globe and serves as a platform for showcasing advancements in the aerospace industry. The IAF confirmed the incident and stated that further details were being ascertained and a Court of Inquiry has been constituted to investigate the cause of the accident. Rescue operations were launched immediately, and the show was temporarily halted.
