World · India Bureau
IAF Chief Flies Final Sortie in Indigenous Tejas Fighter
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh completed his last operational flight in the Tejas light combat aircraft from Jodhpur airbase on Sunday, just days before his retirement on October 31. The symbolic sortie marks a farewell to active flying duties for the Indian Air Force's top commander.
LSN India ·
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh piloted the indigenously-developed Tejas fighter from the Jodhpur airbase on Sunday in what officials confirmed as his final flight before stepping down from his position on October 31. The flight represents a significant moment for Singh, who has overseen critical modernisation initiatives within the Indian Air Force during his tenure as chief.
The Tejas, India's first domestically-designed and manufactured light combat aircraft, has been a cornerstone of the nation's aeronautical advancement and self-reliance objectives. Singh's choice to conclude his flying career in the aircraft underscores the IAF's commitment to indigenous defence capabilities and technological development.
The Air Chief Marshal's retirement comes at a time when the Indian Air Force continues to strengthen its operational readiness and expand its fleet with advanced aircraft platforms. His final sortie in the Tejas serves as both a personal milestone and a symbolic representation of India's growing prowess in defence innovation.