After over two decades of being in the film industry, actor Salman Khan has finally signed his first project with Yash Raj Films (YRF). He says the film will be challenging and that he is excited about it.The romantic thriller "Ek Tha Tiger", will be directed by Kabir Khan, and will feature Katrina Kaif opposite Salman.

"In the past, Adi (Aditya Chopra) and I have met a few times on various projects but somehow when Kabir and he came to me with this particular story, we all just knew that this was the one, " Salman said in a press statement.

The 45-year-old says he is glad to be associated with YRF.

"It is a very ambitious project and will be a challenge for all of us, but that's exactly what makes it such a big draw. Above all this, I'm honoured to be working with Yash-ji (Yash Chopra), who has worked so closely with my dad (Salim Khan) in the past, "

Veteran filmmaker Yash Chopra, the head honcho of YRF, is equally upbeat about working with Salman, who he feels has come a long way in Bollywood.

"Everyone knows my association with Salim saab, having worked together on 'Deewaar', 'Trishul' and 'Kaala Patthar'. It is a very happy moment for me and YRF to have his son Salman with us for the first time.

"Over the years, Salman has become a very matured and talented actor and both he and the beautiful Katrina have a tremendous connect with their audiences. Combined with Kabir's edgy directorial skills, we can all look forward to a thrilling film, " said Chopra.

The script of "Ek Tha Tiger" is based on a story written by Yash and Aditya Chopra. The screenplay and dialogues have been written by Kabir Khan and Neelesh Misra, while the music will be scored by Pritam Chakraborty.

The film will go on floors early July, and is slated for a mid-2012 release.