19.1.15

HAL finally hands over Tejas to IAF



After a 32-year wait, the Indian Air Force (IAF) received its first series production version of the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas (LCA-SP1) on Saturday. Its induction into a fighting squadron, however, will take longer.
The IAF, sources said, is looking to raise the first squadron with a fleet of six to eight LCAs. Given the inadequate number of aircraft, this cannot be done before 2016.
A squadron, according to a retired Air Marshal, generally comprises 18 pilots. It has a service aircraft, a standby platform and a trainer.
“However, the number could vary depending on the aircraft and other variables.” Sources said that neither the SP-1 nor the SP-2 will make it to a fighting squadron; versions from the SP-3 and later will be considered.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) chairman R K Tyagi, however said: “…The SP-1 has been handed over to the IAF by the defence minister. They have accepted the aircraft. Where but in the squadrons is its place?” The SP-1, which first flew in October 2014, has had only five flights and needs more hours before induction. Also, an initial operational clearance (IOC) configuration without the latest electronic war fare suite, long-range missile capabilities and mid-air refuelling means there may be further improvements required before it is finally inducted. Saturday's ceremony was only symbolic, according to sources. “India can truly claim the LCA as a success only after the aircraft get commissioned into a squadron,” the Air Marshal said.

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