During an aerial demonstration at the Dubai Air Show 2025, Wing Commander Namansh Syal, a courageous and accomplished pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF), passed away.
Around 2:10 pm local time, the IAF’s domestic fighter jet TEJAS crashed during a manoeuvre, resulting in the terrible accident.
Many onlookers saw the aircraft’s quick nosedive and subsequent engulfment in flames, which sent dense black smoke across the stadium. The
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called Namansh Syal a brave pilot and expressed his profound sorrow over the death. He highlighted that the country is together with the pilot’s family during this terrible time and expressed his sincere condolences. His address emphasised the nation’s shared grief and the support shown to the grieving family. The
The Indian Air Force declared that a court of inquiry would be established to ascertain the reason of the crash and confirmed the pilot’s fatal injuries. The IAF reaffirmed its solidarity for the pilot’s family at this time of sadness and expressed deep regret for the loss of life. The
General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, expressed his sincere sorrow over the occurrence and reaffirmed that all Indian Armed Forces ranks are in solidarity with the grieving family.
In a public statement, the Integrated Defence Staff expressed the grief of the armed services and promised the family their entire assistance. It was also emphasised that a court of inquiry would be established, indicating a comprehensive investigation into the catastrophic tragedy. The
The Indian Embassy in Dubai declared that its teams from the Embassy and Consulate are on the ground, closely collaborating with UAE authorities and provide all support feasible in relation to the matter. The Indian Navy also sent its deepest sympathies, with its Chief, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, and staff strongly supporting the pilot’s family at this difficult time. The
This is the second crash using the domestic TEJAS aircraft; the previous one happened in 2024 close to Jaisalmer. The TEJAS continues to be a key component of India’s plans to update its air force fleet with cutting-edge, domestically produced fighter jets in spite of these obstacles. The
India’s defence establishment is very saddened by the loss at the Dubai Air Show, highlighting Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s commitment for the country. It is anticipated that thorough investigations will reveal the reason for this regrettable mishap.
In the meantime, the military and the entire country offer their sincere sympathies to the pilot’s family. The
This paper describes the circumstances of the IAF Tejas mishap at the Dubai Air Show 2025, the serious responses from important defence authorities, and the ongoing investigation. It draws attention to the widespread sorrow and the government’s and Indian defence community’s resolute support for the bereaved family.
