New Delhi, August 6: The Indian Air Force is currently awaiting the delayed delivery of the Tejas Mark 1A aircraft. Despite this setback, preparations are in full swing. Pilots are already being trained to operate the new jets. According to defense officials, several pilots from the first batch have completed their training, while others are still undergoing it. This training is currently taking place on the existing Tejas Mark 1 aircraft.
Training is described as a smooth process by defense officials. The Indian Air Force already operates two squadrons of the Tejas Mark 1, located at Sulur and Nal Air Bases. Training is ongoing at both bases, and simulator training is also being conducted. Officials indicate that the pilots currently flying the Tejas Mark 1 will likely command the future Tejas Mark 1A aircraft. While the Tejas Mark 1A is technically different from its predecessor, a brief syllabus allows current pilots to transition to the new model.
The first squadron to be established with the Tejas Mark 1A will replace one of the last two squadrons of the phased-out MiG-21 Bison. The No. 3 Squadron ‘Cobra’ will receive the new Tejas jets. The history of No. 3 Squadron is notable; it originally operated the MiG-21 Bison, and the first upgrade to the Bison also occurred within this squadron. Now, the advanced and upgraded LCA Mark 1A will join the ranks of this squadron.
September 26, 2025, marked a historic day for the Indian Air Force as the MiG-21 was retired after 60 years of service. Pilots who flew the last MiG-21 squadron will now transition to the brand-new indigenous fighter jet, the Tejas Mark 1A. The final flight of the MiG-21 in Chandigarh was attended by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and Squadron Leader Priya Sharma, who will soon be seen flying the Tejas Mark 1A.
If a pilot wishes to transition from one aircraft to another or to a different stream, they must undergo a significant process. Generally, pilots cannot change their stream at will. The flying streams include fighter, fixed-wing transport, and helicopters. Fighter pilots can move to transport or helicopter streams. The retirement of the MiG-21 provides a valid reason for pilots to change streams. Additionally, the Air Force’s pilot training program offers various fighter jet specialization options. MiG-21 pilots must complete 3 to 6 months of training to operate different fighter aircraft, as each model has unique characteristics.
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DKP/
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