In response to the US Navy’s Request for Information (RFI) for a jet trainer to replace it's Boeing T-45 Goshawk, India has reportedly offered the Lead-in Fighter Trainer (LIFT) variant of the HAL Tejas.

As per the report, it is the first time India has made a defence sales pitch to the US. The US Navy requires these jets for its Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS).

The aircraft is based on the advanced LCA Tejas Mk 1A variant and meets all the basic parameters like capability to provide a field carrier landing practice and carrier touch and go events. The jet also includes advanced avionics which enable it to mimic almost all types of jets, from cockpit display layout to control performances.

This is the first time India has offered the domestically-developed fighter to a developed nation. In the past, India has offered the Tejas to Malaysia, and has exhibited it at the Bahrain Air Show. Sri Lanka and Egypt showed interest in the fighter in 2018.

India in response to the RFI has sent a detailed project plan to the US which is currently evaluating the same. If shortlisted, India has also offered to build a demonstrator version of the jet.

While India is competing against a host of global manufacturers, what sets it apart from the rest is an absence of similar jets in the market. The extensively tested LCA has also demonstrated its capability of operating from an aircraft carrier.

In a bid to market the Tejas to other countries, India has planned to set up logistics bases in Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

Image Source: Defense World