The Dubai Air Show 2025, known for showcasing global aviation excellence, turned into a tragic spectacle when India’s indigenous fighter jet HAL Tejas crashed during a live aerobatic performance. What was meant to demonstrate India’s technological strength became a global headline, raising critical questions about the aircraft’s reliability, safety, and future prospects.
This incident not only shocked spectators but also triggered worldwide debates on India’s indigenous aircraft program, export challenges, and technical vulnerabilities. In this detailed analysis, we explore what happened, why it happened, and how this event impacts the Tejas program—while comparing it to Pakistan’s modern JF-17 Thunder Block-3.
Tejas Fighter Jet Crash in Dubai Air Show 2025 – What Happened?
During a routine aerobatic maneuver, the Tejas jet reportedly lost control, dipped sharply, and crashed near the display area. Witnesses described seeing the aircraft struggling during a high-speed turn, after which it plunged, erupting into flames.
The crash occurred in full public view, with spectators recording the horrifying moment. The UAE fire and rescue teams responded within seconds, but the impact was devastating.
Pilot Identification – Who Was Flying the Tejas Aircraft?
The aircraft was flown by Wing Commander Namansh Syal, an experienced and highly respected Indian Air Force pilot. Known for his precision and professionalism, he had represented the IAF in multiple flight demonstrations. His loss has deeply affected the aviation community, and tributes poured in globally.
Emergency Response and Official Investigations
UAE authorities immediately secured the crash site, extinguished the fire, and initiated emergency protocols. India announced a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause. Initial reports suggest:
- A possible control system failure
- A sudden maneuver-induced blackout
- A technical malfunction during flight
The final report may take months, but the incident has intensified scrutiny of Tejas.
Global Media Coverage and International Reaction
Major international outlets covered the Tejas crash extensively. Defense analysts worldwide questioned the aircraft’s safety record, India’s testing procedures, and the impact on Tejas export ambitions.
The global defense community has now turned its focus towards evaluating the aircraft more critically.
Technical Weaknesses of Tejas Fighter Jet Highlighted by Recent Incidents
The crash renewed attention on long-standing technical concerns associated with Tejas:
▪ Foreign Engine Dependency
Tejas relies on the GE F404 engine, which India imports—making the program geopolitically vulnerable.
▪ High Percentage of Imported Components
Despite claims of indigenization, several key avionics and subsystems come from foreign sources.
▪ Production Delays & Slow Delivery
The aircraft has faced multiple production delays, affecting both Indian and potential foreign orders.
▪ Lack of Combat Testing
Unlike many competitor aircraft, Tejas is not combat-proven, reducing confidence among prospective buyers.
These weaknesses have repeatedly hindered India’s efforts to project Tejas as a globally competitive fighter.
Social Media Controversy: Tejas Jet Oil Leakage Incident at Dubai Air Show
Days before the crash, videos went viral showing liquid dripping from the belly of the Tejas jet. Ground crew were seen placing shopping bags underneath to collect the leaking fluid.
This sparked a storm on social media, with many claiming the jet had an oil leakage issue.
Indian officials later clarified that:
- It was not oil,
- It was condensed water drainage from ECS/OBOGS systems,
- This is a routine procedure, especially in humid climates.
However, the damage to public perception was already done. The incident fueled memes, criticism, and debates—further straining the Tejas program’s global reputation.
Why India Has Failed to Export Tejas Fighter Jet to Any Country
Despite aggressive marketing, India has not secured a major export contract for Tejas. Key reasons include:
▪ High Competition From Established Jets
Countries prefer proven fighters like JF-17, FA-50, or Gripen.
▪ Limited Production Capacity
India struggles to meet even domestic demand, making exports uncertain.
▪ Foreign Component Restrictions
Imported engines and avionics require international approvals before export—causing diplomatic and logistical complications.
▪ No Combat Record
Nations usually want jets that are “battle-tested,” something Tejas is not.
As a result, interest exists—but confirmed buyers do not.
Why Tejas Has Never Been Used in Any Real Combat Operation
Tejas has not participated in any war or frontline combat mission. Reasons include:
- The IAF deploying Tejas mostly for training roles
- Concerns about reliability in mission-critical operations
- Preference for proven platforms like Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29
Without combat validation, Tejas remains a theoretical capability rather than a battlefield-tested asset.
Comparison: Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder Block-3 vs India’s Tejas LCA
Both nations invested heavily in light combat aircraft programs, but:
- Tejas = More advanced in certain avionics
- JF-17 Block-3 = More practical, cheaper, export-friendly & combat-integrated
JF-17’s real advantage lies in its operational history and exports.
Why JF-17 Thunder Block-3 is Considered More Advanced Than Tejas
▪ AESA Radar (KLJ-7A)
Provides superior tracking, jamming resistance, and multi-target capability.
▪ Low Cost, High Output Production
Makes it attractive for developing countries.
▪ Better Export Success
Multiple countries already fly it, boosting its credibility.
▪ Combat-Ready & Integrated With Modern Weapons
Including beyond-visual-range missiles and advanced targeting systems.
In terms of real-world usability, Block-3 often outshines Tejas.
Countries Currently Using Pakistan-China JF-17 Thunder Fighter Jets
The JF-17 has secured multiple international customers, including:
- Pakistan
- Azerbaijan
- Nigeria
- Myanmar
More countries are evaluating it due to its affordability and performance.
Combat Record of JF-17 Thunder: Participation in Real Military Operations
JF-17 has been deployed in:
- Border skirmishes
- Counterterrorism air missions
- Real combat scenarios
- Active patrols and interceptions
This gives it a strong credibility factor Tejas currently lacks.
JF-17 Thunder Safety Record: No Major Crashes Reported So Far
Although older models had isolated issues, JF-17 Block-3 maintains an excellent safety record with no major crashes publicly reported.
This boosts buyer confidence significantly.
Impact on India’s Defence Image & Tejas Program After Dubai Crash
The Dubai crash has:
- Damaged India’s aviation reputation
- Created doubts about Tejas export potential
- Intensified criticism from global defense analysts
- Put pressure on the IAF and HAL to prove Tejas is reliable
India must now undertake aggressive reforms to restore global confidence.
Final Analysis – Future of Tejas and India’s Aviation Safety
The Tejas program is at a crucial turning point. India must:
- Resolve technical issues
- Improve production capacity
- Increase indigenous components
- Demonstrate combat readiness
Failure to do so may widen the gap between Tejas and competing aircraft.
Conclusion – Lessons From the Dubai Air Show Tragedy
The Tejas crash is not just an isolated accident—it is a wake-up call.
India must address structural, technical, and strategic flaws to strengthen its aviation future.
In contrast, Pakistan’s JF-17 Block-3 continues gaining momentum globally, becoming a preferred light fighter in several countries.
Ultimately, the Dubai tragedy highlights the importance of safety, testing, transparency, and real combat validation in modern aerospace programs.
