Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 Fighter Jets Propel India's Composite Manufacturing Boom with Target of 300+ Units by 2035

India is advancing its indigenous aerospace manufacturing capabilities with a significant focus on the production of composite materials to support its flagship fighter jet programs—the Tejas Mk1A and the upcoming Tejas Mk2. This ambitious plan aims to produce over 300 advanced fighter jets by 2035, each equipped with domestically manufactured composite panels. This initiative underlines India's commitment to achieving self-reliance in defence production under the "Make in India" campaign.

The Role of Composites in the Tejas Program

Composites play a critical role in modern aerospace engineering due to their lightweight, high strength, and durability. The Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 extensively use composite materials in their airframe, accounting for up to 45% of the aircraft's structure by weight. This translates to better fuel efficiency, improved maneuverability, and reduced radar cross-section, enhancing stealth capabilities.

The advanced composite panels used in Tejas jets are manufactured using techniques like co-curing and autoclave processing, ensuring superior structural integrity and precision. Co-curing, in particular, allows multiple composite layers to be bonded simultaneously, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.

Domestic Production: Collaboration and Scaling

To meet the growing demand for composite materials, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), has intensified its efforts to develop and manufacture these materials locally. NAL, which has a rich history of contributing to India’s aerospace programs, is now working closely with private sector partners to scale up production.

Private companies bring agility, innovation, and efficiency to the table, complementing NAL’s expertise in composite technology. This partnership aims to decentralize production, streamline supply chains, and achieve the ambitious target of producing 300+ aircraft by 2035.

Strategic and Economic Implications

The expansion of composite manufacturing for the Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 programs is a testament to India's growing aerospace capabilities. By relying on domestically produced components, India reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers, ensuring greater security and cost efficiency. Additionally, the success of these programs positions India as a potential exporter of advanced fighter jets, boosting its status in the global defence market.

This large-scale manufacturing initiative also has broader economic implications. It fosters the growth of India’s private aerospace industry, creates high-skilled jobs, and drives technological innovation. Moreover, the partnership between NAL and private companies sets a precedent for future collaborations in aerospace and defence manufacturing.

Looking Ahead

By 2035, India’s goal to deploy over 300 Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 fighter jets equipped with indigenously produced composite panels is not just a milestone for its defence sector but a significant achievement in its journey towards technological self-reliance. The initiative underscores India's determination to become a global leader in aerospace innovation and manufacturing.

The Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 programs symbolize more than just advanced fighter jets; they represent India’s commitment to strengthening its national defence, fostering innovation, and contributing to the global aerospace ecosystem.