An advanced version of the Tejas fighter jet, equipped with AESA radar technology and an electronic warfare system manufactured by Elta of Israel Aerospace Industries, is in production.
Armenia announced that it is suspending negotiations on the purchase of the Indian Tejas fighter jet, following a crash during an air display at the Dubai Airshow on Saturday.
The aircraft’s pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Sial, was killed in the crash.
Armenia was conducting talks with the Indian government and aircraft manufacturer HAL regarding the purchase of 12 aircraft for $1.2 billion in what would have been the first export deal of the aircraft. The development of the Tejas jet began in 1982, as part of India’s attempt to become both one of the world’s largest arms purchasers and exporters.
Israeli radar, sights, helmet, and missiles
The Tejas was intended to replace hundreds of Indian MiG-21s, the last of which were grounded this year. So far, the Indian Air Force has received only 40 Tejas aircraft from the first production run.
Production of 97 units of an advanced version, called A1, is now beginning, with improvements that aim to bring it in line with Western fighter jets, largely due to Israeli systems utilized in the development of the craft.
The A1 Tejas are set to be equipped with AESA radar technology manufactured by Elta of Israel Aerospace Industries and an electronic warfare system manufactured by the company, among other features.
Pilots would have access to the new generation of Elbit’s helmet-mounted sight, and the aircraft will be armed with Rafael-manufactured Derby radar-guided missiles.
‘Shocked by the disaster and the decision to continue’
It has not yet been clarified whether the crash in Dubai was caused by a technical malfunction or pilot error, but the aircraft’s reputation has already been damaged. If the deal is canceled, IAI is estimated to lose tens of millions of dollars in revenue.
The commander of the US Air Force F-16 Viper Team aerobatic team, who participated in the show, criticized the decision by Dubai Airshow organizers to continue with aerobatic displays even after the Tejas crash.
Major Taylor Hiester wrote on his Instagram account that he was shocked by the disaster and the decision, and out of respect for the Indian pilot and his family, the team canceled its final performance at the event.
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