Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), was presented with the twin-seater trainer aircraft of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas by CB Ananthakrishnan, Chief Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), during a ceremony held in Bengaluru.
Chaudhari expressed his pride, stating that this day marked a significant milestone for the Indian aviation industry. He mentioned that two LCA squadrons were already established, and a contract for an additional 83 LCAs had been signed.
Chaudhari emphasized that this step towards self-reliance in aviation was a moment of pride for the Indian Air Force.
Minister of State for Defence, Ajay Bhatt, also highlighted the historic significance of the event and the progress towards self-sufficiency in aviation under the Atmanirbhar initiative led by Prime Minister Modi.