The Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) was shown off at Aero India 2023 by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). This version of the aircraft has a blunt, rounded nose cone instead of the earlier, angled, stealth-optimized frontal radome.
The diverterless supersonic inlets (DSI), canards, and leading-edge extensions (LEX) from the previous version are all still included in the current design. This new design is probably the final that will go into production if the programme receives approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), sources with knowledge of the situation have revealed.
The TEDBF programme is projected to cost 14,000 crores. The new design is strikingly similar to the Dassault Rafale fighter jets, especially in terms of the canopy configuration and overall appearance. However, the TEDBF will have DSI intakes, which the Rafale does not have.
As the Indian Navy prepares to place orders for 26 Rafale M jets for aircraft carrier operations, once the ADA formally confirms the new design selection for the programme, the visual resemblance between the TEDBF and the Rafale is likely to ignite controversy.
Possible Features of the Updated TEDBF Design
- Reduced radar cross-section (RCS): The aircraft’s stealth potential may be improved by the rounded nose cone’s lower RCS when compared to the angled version.
- Increased interior Volume: More interior room for avionics and equipment could be made available by the blunt nose cone, offering more customisation and flexibility.
- Reduced Costs: Compared to a more complex structure, a simpler design may result in lower production and maintenance costs.
Possible Difficulties with the New TEDBF Design
- Aerodynamic Performance: The aircraft’s speed and manoeuvrability may be impacted by the rounded nose cone’s possible effects on aerodynamic performance.
- Trade-offs in terms of stealth: Although the new design may have a lesser RCS than the original angled radome, it may not be as stealthy as the previous design.
- Discussions and Comparisons: Given the similarities to the Rafale, there may be debates on the necessity of a distinct indigenous programme and the possibility of duplication of effort.
Ultimately, the TEDBF program’s new layout marks a dramatic change of course. Although its performance and capabilities are still to be determined, this new design adds an interesting dimension to the ongoing development of this vital project for the Indian Navy.
