Tejas scripts history in Bahrain with a stunning demo

Bengaluru, Dec 21: India's Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas on Thursday scripted history by becoming the first Made in India fighter jet to fly at an international event, outside the country.

At the 4th edition of Bahrain International Air Show (BIAS-2016) that began today at Sakhir air base, a Limited Series Production (LSP-4) variant of Tejas flew in front of a packed international gathering at around 6.30 pm (IST).

The flight was piloted by Commodore Jaideep Maolonkar, Chief Test Pilot at National Flight Test Centre (NFTC).

Back in Bengaluru, there was a jubilant mood at Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).

"Everyone is thrilled and latching on to all possible information that is being relayed from Bahrain. It is a day when we remembered all our forefathers who toiled hard for the project. Dr Kalam, Dr Kota and many more who spearheaded this project were remembered," says an official at ADA.

A large team of ground support crew from ADA, HAL and RCMA are at the Sakhir air base top support the maiden outing of Tejas abroad.

"These are the unsung heroes who help Tejas missions during TRS (Turn Round Service). It's a happy outfit there," says the official.

The IAF's Sarang Helicopter Display Team, flying the Dhruvs, enthralled the gathering ahead of the Tejas sky stunners. The Sarang Air Display team is led by Group Captain AS Abhayankar.

Initial reports say that Tejas demonstration lasted for nine minutes.

OneIndia News