Indian multi-role light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), appears to have a potential buyer—Egypt.
A high-level Egyptian delegation recently visited the HAL facilities to inspect the production line of Tejas Mk1A—a 4.5 generation, lightweight, high-agility supersonic multi-role fighter aircraft.
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HAL had also showcased its advanced light helicopter (ALH) Dhruv MkIII at the recently concluded Egypt International Airshow 2024.
The visit suggests that Egypt may be considering the purchase of the LCA, as talks regarding this have been ongoing for some time. The visit of Egypt delegation comes amid rumours that the country is also looking at China’s J-10 fighter jets. The Chengdu J-10, also called the Vigorous Dragon, is a Chinese multi-role fighter aircraft developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation for the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
According to media reports, the possible sale of Tejas to Egypt would also involve setting up of a maintenance, research, and overhaul facility in the country. According to The Print, Egypt may be considering the purchase of as many as 18 Tejas Mk1A aircraft.
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There are also indications that Egypt may consider procuring Dhruv advanced light helicopter, as part of the attempts to modernise its air force.
