The much-awaited Tejas Mk 2 light combat aircraft (LCA), manufactured in India, is anticipated to have its maiden flight in 2025, powered by an American engine. Prabhulla Chandran VK, director of avionics and weapons systems at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), revealed the progress. GE Aerospace recently inked a deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture fighter jet engines, marking a significant development coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US. Previously, engineers explored engine options from France and British Rolls Royce. Approximately 200 Tejas Mk 2 fighters are scheduled for production, with an estimated rollout time of 18 months and an additional six months for the first flight.
The Tejas Mk 2 project has obtained clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security. Notably, 90% of the components will be indigenous, prioritizing cutting-edge radar systems, weaponry, and other capabilities, all crafted in India, except for the ejection seat and a few sensors. According to Prabhulla Chandran, the single-engine Tejas Mk 2 will outperform the Rafale. Over 300 public and private institutions are involved in the LCA program.
Distinguishing itself from its predecessor, Tejas Mk 1, the new design boasts a 20% larger size, expanded capacity, state-of-the-art avionics, improved range, and enhanced weapon carrying capacity, details yet to be disclosed. Initially, only one version of the fighter plane will be produced, with the possibility of a trainer aircraft being explored in the future. The upcoming Tejas Mk 2 signifies India's commitment to developing advanced indigenous defense technologies.
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