PM Modi successfully completes a shortie on Tejas aircraft in Bengaluru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to the skies on Saturday as he flew in a Tejas fighter during his visit to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru. The visit was part of the Prime Minister's agenda to review the ongoing work at HAL's manufacturing facility. Modi, an advocate for indigenous production of defence equipment, had earlier stated that he would specifically inspect the facility responsible for manufacturing Tejas jets. The flight, a notable moment during his visit, showcased the Prime Minister's commitment to bolstering the country's self-reliance in defence capabilities.

Following his flight, Prime Minister Modi shared additional pictures, describing the experience as "incredibly enriching." He emphasized how the experience further instilled confidence in the nation's indigenous capabilities, aligning with his government's push for domestic manufacturing and export of defence products. Notably, the Tejas, a light combat aircraft, has attracted international attention, with several countries expressing interest in its procurement.

During a previous state visit to the US, a significant milestone was reached as US defence giant GE Aerospace and HAL entered into an agreement to jointly produce engines for the Mk-II-Tejas. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted in April that India's defence exports had achieved an all-time high of Rs 15,920 crore in FY 2022-2023, showcasing a remarkable milestone for the country.

मैं आज तेजस में उड़ान भरते हुए अत्यंत गर्व के साथ कह सकता हूं कि हमारी मेहनत और लगन के कारण हम आत्मनिर्भरता के क्षेत्र में विश्व में किसी से कम नहीं हैं। भारतीय वायुसेना, DRDO और HAL के साथ ही समस्त भारतवासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं। pic.twitter.com/xWJc2QVlWV

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 25, 2023

Successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country's indigenous capabilities, and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential. pic.twitter.com/4aO6Wf9XYO

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 25, 2023