The Indian Air Force is transitioning from the legendary MiG-21 fighter jets to the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in military aviation. The Tejas, a 4.5-generation fighter, enhances combat capabilities with advanced systems and is positioned to serve both as a frontline fighter and an advanced jet trainer. With successful integration of modern weapons and an impressive safety record, the Tejas is expected to become the backbone of the IAF, reinforcing India’s growing strength in defense manufacturing under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative while reducing reliance on foreign platforms. This evolution underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its aerospace capabilities and boosting its defense industry.