HAL CMD Flies LCA-Tejas

The aircraft not only showcased it’s manoeuvrability but also demonstrated a simulated launch of a beyond visual range missile.

Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, T Suvarna Raju flew the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft-Tejas from HAL Airport on August 8. The twin seat variant of LCA (PV5) was piloted by Group Captain KK Venugopal, VM (retd) HAL’s Chief Test Pilot.

Showcasing it’s manoeuvrability, the aircraft climbed to 30,000 feet and accelerated to supersonic speed of 1.1 Mach. This was followed by a simulated launch of Beyond Visual Range missile on a target of opportunity, said Raju after the sortie. It is a wonderful flying machine, capable of being the backbone of IAF combat power in the years to come, he adds.




Demonstrating the prowess of the aircraft to attack ground targets, a simulated attack was carried out with a laser guided bomb. The manoeuvring capability of the aircraft in close combat situations is a unique experience to even veteran pilots. The landing was carried out simulating low visibility conditions utilising the ‘automatic approach’ mode of the aircraft.

HAL has ramped up the production rate to meet the requirement of IAF in association with other industrial partners in order to ensure the speedy deliveries of LCAs. HAL is in talks with IAF for production of 83 more LCAs with upgraded capabilities known as Tejas Mk 1A.

Raju reiterated that as one of the biggest aircraft production houses in Asia, HAL is committed to constantly improve its products to meet the national security requirements.

 

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