Tejas and Prachand UPSC NOTE

Why in News

Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gives initial approval for acquisition of the indigenously developed aircraft for armed forces; 98% of total procurement to be sourced from domestic industries.
Defence Acquisition projects estimated at ₹2.23 lakh crore that included procurement of 97 Tejas light combat aircraft and 156 Prachand combat helicopters.

Tejas jets

The Tejas jet is a single-engine, fourth-generation fighter jet designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
It is the first indigenously developed fighter jet to enter service with the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The Tejas jet is a multirole fighter aircraft that can be used for air superiority, air-to-ground attack, and close air support missions.
It is equipped with a variety of advanced avionics and weapons systems, including a radar, an electronic warfare suite, and air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.

It is a testament to the country's growing ability to design and produce advanced military aircraft.
As of December 1, 2023, the IAF has inducted 16 Tejas Mk 1 aircraft into service.
It has also placed an order for 97 Tejas Mk 1A aircraft, which are scheduled to be delivered by 2028.
The IAF is also planning to acquire a more advanced version of the Tejas jet, known as the Tejas Mk 2.
The Tejas jet is a vital part of India's air defense strategy.

Prachand helicopters

The Prachand is an Indian multi-role light attack helicopter designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under Project LCH.
It has been ordered by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army.
Its flight ceiling is the highest among all attack helicopters in the world.
The Prachand is a highly capable helicopter that can be used for a variety of missions,
Close air support
Anti-tank warfare
Air superiority