Tejas Jet Crash: A Tejas Light Combat Aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) suffered major airframe damage after overshooting the runway at a frontline airbase on February 7, 2026, following a suspected brake failure and tyre burst. The pilot ejected safely and escaped serious injury. The incident marks the third accident involving the Tejas fleet since its induction in July 2016.
In response, the IAF grounded its entire fleet of around 30 single-seat Tejas jets for extensive technical scrutiny. The development comes at a critical time as India moves forward with over ₹1 lakh crore worth of Tejas Mk1A procurement orders.
Key Developments in the February 7 Tejas Fighter Jet Accident and Fleet Grounding
- Accident occurred on February 7, 2026 at a frontline airbase
- Suspected brake failure followed by tyre burst
- Aircraft overshot runway after landing
- Major structural and airframe damage sustained
- Aircraft likely to be written off
- Pilot ejected safely; no serious injuries
- Entire fleet of around 30–32 single-seat Tejas Mk1 grounded
- Court of Inquiry initiated
- Mk1A deliveries delayed amid ₹1 lakh crore expansion
What Happened at the Frontline Airbase on February 7?
According to authoritative sources, the Tejas jet was returning from a routine training sortie when the suspected brake malfunction occurred during landing. The failure reportedly led to a tyre burst, causing the aircraft to overshoot the runway and veer off into a ditch area.
The aircraft suffered major damage to its airframe and is likely to be written off. The pilot ejected safely and avoided serious injury. The IAF has not yet issued an official public statement on the incident.
Fleet Grounded for Extensive Technical Scrutiny
Following the accident, the IAF grounded its entire fleet of approximately 30 single-seat Tejas aircraft. A high-level Court of Inquiry has been ordered to determine whether the incident was purely technical or operational in nature.
The aircraft involved was part of the 32 single-seat LCA Mk1 jets delivered by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
IOC and FOC Breakdown
- 20 aircraft under Initial Operational Clearance (IOC)
- 20 aircraft under Final Operational Clearance (FOC)
In addition, the IAF had placed an order in 2010 for eight Tejas trainer aircraft. HAL is yet to deliver two of these trainer jets.
Third Accident Since Induction in July 2016
The February 2026 incident is the third accident involving the Tejas platform.
Tejas Crash Timeline
| Year | Location | Circumstances | Pilot Status |
| March 2024 | Near Jaisalmer | Crash after firepower demonstration | Ejected safely |
| November 2025 | Dubai Airshow | Crash during aerobatic display | Pilot killed |
| February 2026 | Frontline base | Landing overshoot after brake failure | Ejected safely |
The November 2025 Dubai Airshow crash resulted in the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal. The aircraft had plunged during an aerobatic manoeuvre and erupted into flames. An inquiry into that crash remains underway.
Mk1A Deliveries and ₹1 Lakh Crore Procurement
The accident comes at a time when HAL has missed multiple deadlines for delivering the upgraded Tejas Mk1A variant.
Major Contracts
- February 2021: ₹48,000 crore deal for 83 Mk1A jets
- September 2025: ₹62,370 crore deal for 97 additional Mk1A jets
- Total Mk1A aircraft ordered: 180
Combined value exceeds ₹1 lakh crore.
Deliveries are running nearly two years behind schedule, primarily due to GE Aerospace missing deadlines for supplying the required aero engines.
The Mk1A is an improved version of the single-engine, 4.5-generation delta-wing multirole fighter designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Strategic Context: Squadron Strength and Modernisation
In 2012, India sanctioned 42 combat squadrons to prepare for the possibility of a two-front conflict. Each squadron comprises 18 fighter aircraft.
The long-term plan includes operating around 40 LCA Mk1 aircraft, approximately 180 Mk1A jets, and at least 120 LCA Mk2 fighters over a 15-year induction period.
Market Reaction Following the Tejas Crash
Shares of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited fell over 2 percent after news of the crash emerged. At 10 am on February 23, HAL shares were trading 2 percent lower at ₹4,080 apiece.
Spiritual Reflection on the Unique Knowledge of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj
While technological advancement and indigenous defence capabilities represent national strength, incidents like aircraft accidents also remind us of the inherent limitations of human systems and material progress. Despite advanced engineering, unforeseen failures can still occur.
According to the spiritual teachings of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj, true security and lasting peace cannot be achieved solely through material development, but through correct spiritual knowledge and adherence to eternal divine laws described in holy scriptures.
His discourses emphasize that human intellect, science, and power operate within limits, whereas spiritual wisdom provides clarity, balance, and inner stability. In moments that test institutions and individuals alike, such perspectives encourage reflection on the deeper purpose of human life beyond technological achievements and worldly strength.
What This Means for the Tejas Programme Going Forward
With three accidents since induction, including one fatal crash in 2025, the Tejas programme faces renewed scrutiny. The fleet-wide grounding reflects a precautionary approach by the IAF as technical investigations proceed.
At the same time, the ₹1 lakh crore Mk1A expansion remains central to strengthening squadron numbers. The findings of the Court of Inquiry will play a decisive role in shaping the operational trajectory of India’s indigenous fighter programme in the months ahead.
FAQs on Tejas Fighter Jet Crash and IAF Fleet Grounding (February 2026)
1. When did the third Tejas fighter jet crash occur?
The latest Tejas crash occurred on February 7, 2026, when the aircraft overshot the runway at a frontline airbase after a suspected brake failure during landing.
2. Why did the Indian Air Force ground the Tejas fleet?
The IAF grounded around 30 single-seat Tejas Mk1 jets to conduct extensive technical scrutiny after the February 7 crash and to rule out systemic mechanical issues.
3. What caused the February 2026 Tejas accident?
Authoritative sources indicate a suspected brake failure followed by a tyre burst during landing, causing the aircraft to overshoot the runway and sustain major airframe damage.
4. How many Tejas crashes have occurred since induction?
Three accidents have occurred since Tejas was inducted in July 2016: Jaisalmer (2024), Dubai Airshow (2025, fatal), and the February 2026 landing incident.
5. What is the status of the Tejas Mk1A orders?
The IAF has ordered 180 Tejas Mk1A jets worth over ₹1 lakh crore, but deliveries are delayed by nearly two years due to GE Aerospace engine supply issues.
