New Delhi: In recent years, Indias defense deals have shifted towards political decisions that emphasize the Make in India initiative while strengthening strategic partnerships with global allies. In this context, there is growing speculation that India may consider the acquisition of Brazils C-390 Millennium, a state-of-the-art heavy transport aircraft that outperforms its American counterpart in speed and efficiency. This could happen if Brazil opts for Indias indigenous fighter jet, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, which has been seeking international buyers despite its successful deployment with the Indian Air Force (IAF).Tejas international struggle and domestic successWhile the Tejas has been operational with the IAF and has proven its capabilities, it has yet to attract foreign buyers. The fighter jet, however, has recently showcased its prowess in the multinational military exercise Tarang Shakti held in India. Notably, IAF Chief Air Marshal AP Singh piloted the LCA during a simulated exercise, successfully intercepting a Eurofighter, marking a significant moment for the Tejas on the global stage. This event, along with the participation of three Vice Chiefs of the Indian armed forces and the German Air Force Chief in flying the jet, is seen as a key milestone for Tejas in gaining international recognition.Brazil shows interest in TejasOn September 11, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari held discussions with Brazilian Air Force Chief Lieutenant-Brigadier Marcelo Kantiz Damasceno, during which the potential acquisition of Tejas was highlighted. Speaking to TimesNow, Damasceno revealed that Brazil is considering the Tejas as a viable option for its future fleet.“According to our rules, we should have not less than two and not more than three kinds of fighter aircraft. Currently, we have the F-5 and the Gripen, but after 2030, we will need maybe two more kinds as the F-5 goes. So, while the Gripen remains, the Tejas is one of the options for our second or third fighter plane,” he stated.Damascenos upcoming visit to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bangalore, where he is expected to fly the LCA, underscores Brazils serious consideration of Tejas as a potential addition to its air force.Tejas growing role in Indian defenseTejas is set to be deployed in operational roles in Indias northern sector, where it could face off against Pakistans F-16s and the China-Pakistan JF-17 fighter jets in the event of a conflict. The IAF, which inducted two squadrons of the LCA in 2016, has demonstrated growing confidence in the indigenous jet by deploying it to forward bases and involving it in international exercises.In 2024, the advanced variant of the LCA, the Tejas Mk1A, took its maiden flight. The IAF has placed a substantial order for these aircraft, with plans to procure 83 units initially and an additional 97 units. The fourth-largest air force in the world, the IAF, aims to operate around 350 LCAs, including the Mk-1, Mk-1A, and Mk-2 variants. Currently, 32 Mk-1 aircraft have been inducted, with orders for 40 jets, and the IAF has firmly committed to expanding its LCA fleet.Challenges and global aspirationsDespite its cost-effectiveness, agility, and growing role within Indias defense framework, the Tejas has struggled to secure international orders. In 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a significant step by flying aboard the LCA, underscoring his confidence in the aircraft and signaling Indias intent to promote the Tejas as a viable export product. With the right strategic partnerships, including Brazils potential interest, the Tejas could soon become a global contender in the defense market.
