-Friday World February 23, 2026
Tejas Fighter Jet: Brake Failure Leads to Runway Overrun – Entire Fleet Grounded Amid Third Major Incident
On February 7, 2026, during a routine training sortie, a Tejas single-seat fighter jet experienced a suspected brake failure while landing at a frontline airbase. The aircraft overshot the runway, veering into a ditch or adjacent area, resulting in severe damage to its airframe. The pilot ejected safely and escaped without serious injuries, but the jet sustained such extensive structural damage that it is likely to be written off.
This incident occurred as the aircraft returned to base after completing its training flight.
Immediately after touchdown, the pilot attempted to apply brakes, but the system reportedly failed.
The jet continued forward off the runway end, leading to the mishap. → No official statement has been issued by the IAF yet, but multiple credible sources, including PTI, ANI, The Hindu, The Print, Hindustan Times, and Times of India, have confirmed the details based on authoritative defense insiders.
Full Fleet Grounded for Safety Inspections** In a precautionary measure following the accident, the IAF has grounded its entire fleet of approximately 30 single-seat Tejas jets (primarily Mk-1 variants).
No Tejas aircraft will fly until a comprehensive technical investigation is completed.
The probe focuses on the brake system, landing gear, onboard systems, and potential maintenance or manufacturing issues.
This decision aims to ensure fleet-wide safety but adds pressure on operational readiness and the ongoing Tejas Mk-1A program.
Tejas' History of Incidents – A Timeline of Challenges** This marks the **third major accident** involving the Tejas since its operational induction, raising questions about the platform's maturity. Here's a quick overview:
March 12, 2024 – Crash near Jaisalmer During the 'Bharat Shakti' exercise in Rajasthan's Pokhran area, a Tejas crashed due to engine failure. The pilot ejected safely. The aircraft fell near a hostel with no casualties on the ground. This was the first operational loss for the Tejas.
November 21, 2025 – Fatal Crash at Dubai Airshow While performing an aerial display at Al Maktoum International Airport, a Tejas Mk-1 crashed, resulting in a fire and thick black smoke. The pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Syal (34, from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh), tragically lost his life. This was the first fatal incident for the Tejas program. Investigations into the cause (possibly related to aerobatic maneuvers) are ongoing.
February 7, 2026 – Latest Runway Overrun Suspected brake failure during landing after a training sortie. Pilot safe; aircraft heavily damaged and likely scrapped. Third loss in under two years, with different failure modes each time (engine, display-related, now brakes/landing systems).
Tejas: Symbol of Self-Reliance or Persistent Hurdles? The Tejas, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is India's first indigenous 4.5-generation multirole fighter. Induction began in 2016, with upgrades in the Mk-1A variant promising better avionics, radar, and weapons integration.
A ₹48,000 crore deal for 83 Mk-1A jets was signed in 2021, but deliveries have faced repeated delays.
These incidents highlight ongoing concerns: Are there lingering technical flaws? Do maintenance, training, or system integration need further refinement?
Experts note that early teething problems are common in new fighter programs (e.g., F-35 or Su-57 faced multiple issues initially). However, in India's context – where indigenization is a national priority – each setback draws intense scrutiny.
What Lies Ahead? The IAF's Court of Inquiry will examine all aspects, including whether this was a manufacturing defect, maintenance lapse, or another factor.
Results could influence future clearances, upgrades, and confidence in the platform.
Meanwhile, the grounding impacts squadron availability, though the IAF maintains other assets for operational needs.
The hope remains that these challenges will be resolved swiftly, allowing the Tejas to strengthen India's skies as a reliable symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
India's homegrown fighter continues to evolve amid trials – resilience and rigorous fixes will define its future success.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World February 23, 2026
