DRDO, ADA, and HAL On Track to Test Powerful TEJAS MK-2 Jet
India's aviation sector is set to take a significant leap forward with the upcoming test of the TEJAS MK-2, a more powerful and advanced version of the indigenous TEJAS fighter jet. Despite delays in the delivery of the current TEJAS MK-1A jets, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are pushing ahead with the development and testing of the TEJAS MK-2 prototype.
A recent high-level review meeting, chaired by DRDO Chairman Samir Kamat, underscored the importance of this project. The meeting brought together key stakeholders involved in the testing and development of the TEJAS MK-2, including various DRDO labs, the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification, and the National Flight Test Centre under ADA. These entities provided status reports on their progress, highlighting that the project is on track despite several challenges.
One of the critical components of the TEJAS MK-2 is its engine. The jet will be powered by the General Electric (GE) F414 engine, a more powerful successor to the GE-F404 engine used in the current TEJAS MK-1A. The F414 engine promises to significantly enhance the jet's performance, enabling it to carry a wider array of weapons and operate more efficiently in various combat scenarios.
The Indian government and HAL are working closely with GE to bring the F414 engine to India, with plans for it to be manufactured domestically under a joint venture. This collaboration, announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US last year, represents a major step forward in India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in defense technology. Although the contract for the joint venture is still pending, India is already working to acquire a few F414 engines to test the flying prototype of the TEJAS MK-2.
The TEJAS MK-2, also known as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), is designed to be a game-changer for the Indian Air Force (IAF). With an all-up weight of 17 tons, the TEJAS MK-2 is larger and more capable than the 13.5-ton TEJAS MK-1A. The IAF is looking to induct around 180 TEJAS MK-2 jets into its fleet, signaling a strong commitment to strengthening its combat capabilities with homegrown technology.
One of the standout features of the F414 engine is the US's approval of technology transfer, which includes 80% of the engine's critical and restricted technologies. These technologies, such as crystal blade coating, laser drilling, and advanced polymers, are highly sought after and are currently possessed by only a few countries, including the US, France, the UK, and Russia. This transfer of technology not only enhances the TEJAS MK-2's capabilities but also boosts India's indigenous defense manufacturing ecosystem.
However, the supply of GE engines has also affected the existing delivery schedule of the TEJAS MK-1A jets. Originally slated to begin in March this year, the deliveries have yet to commence, largely due to the prioritization of the F414 engine for the TEJAS MK-2 prototype.
As the development of the TEJAS MK-2 progresses, it represents a significant stride toward India’s goal of self-reliance in defense. The successful testing and eventual induction of this advanced fighter jet will not only strengthen the IAF but also solidify India’s position as a key player in the global defense arena.
