NEW DELHI — The most advanced version of India’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) has made its first flight, setting the stage for its induction into the country’s air force. The limited series production aircraft (LSP-8) is the last in the indigenously developed Tejas’ flight line before it is prepared for deployment for operational service by 2015.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plans to tie up with local airlines and state-run oil companies to meet the fuel requirements of domestic airlines. The AAI, which operates 125 airports in the country, will hold a 13% stake in the joint venture, “with other stakes being held by different partners,” says Chairman V. P. Agarwal. AAI currently is working out the details of the initiative, which include inviting “airlines to be part of the joint venture.”

NEW DELHI — India’s Bharat Electronics (BEL) will manufacture sub-assemblies for the Boeing Super Hornet fighter. “Under a follow-on contract of 2011, BEL will deliver components for our F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft,” says Dennis Swanson, vice president of international business development for Boeing Defense, Space & Security in India.