ADA Develops New 1700-Litre and 1300-Litre Drop Tanks for Tejas Mk2, Boosting Range and Mission Flexibility

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has initiated the development of two new external fuel tanks—commonly known as drop tanks—for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2. These advanced fuel tanks are set to enhance the operational range of the aircraft, offering increased endurance and greater mission versatility.

Drop tanks serve as external fuel reservoirs that significantly expand an aircraft’s fuel capacity, allowing it to fly longer distances without the need for frequent refueling. A key advantage of these tanks is their jettison capability, enabling pilots to discard them mid-flight to reduce weight and improve maneuverability, particularly in combat scenarios or emergency situations.

The LCA Tejas Mk2 will feature two distinct types of drop tanks:

• DT1700 (1700-litre drop tank): Mounted on the inner sections of the wings, this tank is elliptically shaped and weighs around 140 kilograms when empty.
• DT1300 (1300-litre drop tank): Positioned beneath the fuselage, this tank has a conical nose and rear design, with an empty weight of approximately 120 kilograms.

In its standard configuration, the Tejas Mk2 will carry three drop tanks—two 1700-litre tanks on the wings and one 1300-litre tank under the fuselage—resulting in an additional fuel capacity of 4700 litres. This extension allows the aircraft to conduct long-range missions and remain airborne for extended durations, a crucial factor for both offensive and defensive operations.

The Tejas Mk2 itself is a next-generation iteration of India’s indigenous fighter jet, featuring a more powerful engine, an increased weapons payload, and modernized avionics. With the integration of these new drop tanks, the aircraft gains improved strategic reach, making it a more formidable asset in India's aerial defense arsenal.