NEW DELHI: A Tejas fighter jet participating in the Dubai Air Show crashed on Friday after nosediving during an aerobatic display, the Indian Air Force said in a statement. The HAL-built light combat aircraft went down at approximately 2.10pm (local time) while executing a maneuver.The IAF in its statement said that the pilot suffered fatal injuries.“An IAF Tejas aircraft met with an accident during an aerial display at the Dubai Air Show today. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of life and stands firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief,” the statement read.Black smoke billowed over the airport as spectators, including women and children, looked on.The Dubai Airshow is being held this year from November 17–21 at the DWC Dubai Airshow Site.

All about the Tejas fighter jet

The Tejas fighter jet is a 4.5-generation all-weather combat aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). HAL produces several variants of the aircraft, including single-seater fighters for both the Air Force and Navy, as well as twin-seater trainer versions for each service.The jet measures 13.2 metres in length, with a wingspan of 8.2 metres and a height of 4.4 metres. Powered by the GE F404-IN20 engine, it delivers 85 kN of thrust and can reach speeds of Mach 1.6. It has a service ceiling of 50,000 feet, can withstand +8g to –3.5g, and comes equipped with nine hardpoints for weapons and equipment.This is a developing story. Details to follow…