Source : IgMp Bureau
The much-awaited first flight of the Tejas Mark 1A aircraft is scheduled to take place in mid-March in Bengaluru, with Prime Minister Modi expected to attend the event. This milestone marks a significant advancement in India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities.
Limited Flight Profile and Software Enhancements
The initial sortie of the Tejas Mark 1A will feature a limited flight profile due to software limitations. The flight control software used in the LCA Tejas limited series production aircraft did not include the capability for a refueling probe, a feature present in all production aircraft.
Certification Challenges and Production Rate
Despite progress, several systems of the Tejas Mark 1A are still undergoing certification, raising concerns among experts about HAL’s production rate. The timely certification of these systems is crucial, especially with potential export customers closely monitoring the aircraft’s progress.
Key Upgrades in Tejas Mark 1A
The Tejas Mark 1A boasts over 40 improvements compared to the Mark 1 variant. It retains the basic Mark 1 airframe while featuring a new avionic suite, including the EL/M-2052 AESA Radar and Uttam AESA Radar, enhancing its combat capabilities.
The Tejas Mark 1A is equipped with the DARE Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS) and an externally mounted self-protection jammer (SPJ) for improved survivability. It also features instrument flight rules (IFR) capability, an Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), and an expanded weapon suite, including the Astra BVRAAM and ASRAAM missiles.
HAL has developed several in-house technologies for the Tejas Mark 1A, including the Combined Interrogator and Transponder (CIT) and a digital map generator for mission planning. The upgraded IFF+ system and reshaped cockpit floor aim to enhance pilot comfort and operational efficiency, resulting in reduced turnaround times.
Conclusion
The upcoming first flight of the Tejas Mark 1A marks a significant milestone in India’s indigenous aerospace development. The aircraft’s advanced features and enhancements underscore India’s commitment to enhancing its air combat capabilities and establishing itself as a key player in the global aerospace industry.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced or no information from this article should be used without written permission of theigmp.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes, if we find same informations or the entire article without our permission, we will take necessary action.
