An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas fighter jet crashed during a low-altitude aerobatic maneuver at the Dubai Air Show on November 21, 2025. The aircraft fell in flames and smoke on the final day of the event, killing the pilot, Wing Commander Namansh Syal. The crash shocked the IAF and raised questions about aircraft safety. This was only the second crash of the Tejas in its 25-year history.
Who Was Group Captain Varun Singh?
Group Captain Varun Singh was a brave and skilled officer in the Indian Air Force. He earned respect for staying calm under pressure and handling tough situations with precision.
In October 2020, he flew a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas over Delhi-NCR when he faced a serious technical problem. At high altitude, the cockpit pressurisation system failed. As he descended to a safer height, the flight control system also stopped working, making the aircraft pitch violently.
Varun Singh could have ejected and saved himself. Instead, he chose to regain control and land the aircraft safely. His Shaurya Chakra citation said, “He maintained exemplary composure … and regained control of the aircraft … thereby exhibiting exceptional flying skills.”
His actions saved the aircraft and possibly many lives on the ground. For this, he received the Shaurya Chakra, India’s third-highest peacetime gallantry award.
IAF is deeply saddened to inform the passing away of braveheart Group Captain Varun Singh, who succumbed this morning to the injuries sustained in the helicopter accident on 08 Dec 21. IAF offers sincere condolences and stands firmly with the bereaved family.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 15, 2021
2021 Helicopter Crash: Lone Survivor of Bipin Rawat Tragedy
On December 8, 2021, an IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter carrying Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, his wife, and senior personnel crashed near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. Group Captain Varun Singh, serving as a liaison officer, was the only survivor.
He suffered severe burns on over 45% of his body. He was first treated in Wellington and later moved to Bengaluru. Despite his courage and resilience, he died from his injuries on December 15, 2021.
The IAF called him a “braveheart”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his “pride, valour, and utmost professionalism.” His last rites were held in Bhopal with full military honours, attended by the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh and many defence personnel.
In a solemn ceremony, last rites of Group Captain Varun Singh were conducted at #Bhopal with full military honours. Wreaths were laid by Hon’ble Chief Minister of #MadhyaPradesh Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and large number of serving and retired defence personnel.@IAF_MCC pic.twitter.com/tzfAYIvGzr
— Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) December 18, 2021
Remembering a True Hero
Group Captain Varun Singh showed courage, skill, and selflessness throughout his career. From saving a Tejas jet during a critical failure to surviving the tragic helicopter crash, his life reflected the highest standards of the Indian Air Force. His sacrifice and bravery continue to inspire pilots and defence personnel across the nation.
