LCA Tejas Mk1 & Mk1A: News and Discussion

[M S Chatterji]

Greetings, aviation enthusiasts and defense tech aficionados!

The LCA Tejas, India's homegrown light combat aircraft, has been making headlines with the rollout of the advanced Mk1A variant. This is a major step forward for India's indigenous aerospace capabilities.

Let's use this thread to discuss:

• Latest developments: Share any news, articles, or official announcements about the Tejas program, including production milestones, test flights, and potential future orders.
• Technical aspects: Dive into the technical specifications of both the Mk1 and Mk1A. What are the key differences? How do they compare to other fighters in their class?
• Operational role: How does the Tejas fit into the Indian Air Force's (IAF) overall strategy? What missions is it best suited for?
• Future potential: What upgrades or variants are on the horizon for the Tejas? How might it evolve to meet emerging threats?
• Open-source information: Much of the Tejas project is classified, but there's still a wealth of open-source information available. Let's share links to articles, videos, and other resources.

Let's keep the discussion respectful and informative. Whether you're a Tejas supporter, a skeptic, or just curious, your insights are welcome here.

 

[team]

Additional air-to-ground weapon systems will be developed by HAL for the LCA-Tejas​

An increasing number of advanced air-to-ground weapon systems are being manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), to supplement its expanding fleet of fighter aircraft. The implementation of these weapon systems will bolster the precision strike capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and fortify the nation's defensive stance.

A number of IAF fighter aircraft, including the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which was developed indigenously, will be equipped with these weapon systems. When it comes to air-to-ground operations, the Tejas has shown great skill, even beating the Jaguar fighter jet, which is known for its ground attack skills.

The Gagan Shakti exercise conducted by the IAF demonstrated the Tejas's expertise in air-to-ground operations. The aircraft effectively and precisely engaged a diverse array of ground targets, showcasing its adaptability and efficacy in missions requiring close air support.

The IAF will be able to execute more precise strike operations against a wider range of targets through the integration of sophisticated air-to-ground weapons systems with the Tejas and other fighter aircraft. This development will enhance India's defensive capabilities, bolstering its capacity to both deter and counter potential threats.

Here are some examples of weapons systems that are being worked on:

AASM Hammer: An exceptionally accurate long-range air-to-surface missile with a range exceeding 50 kilometers.

JDAM: A joint direct attack munition that uses satellite guidance to transform unguided explosives into precision-guided weapons.

Griffin LGB: A highly accurate laser-guided bomb with a maximum range of 5 kilometers.

Al Tariq: A precision-guided weapon system created by Tawazun Advanced Defence Systems, a UAE-based company.

Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW): An anti-airfield weapon developed indigenously with a range of 100 kilometers and exceptional accuracy.

 

[team]

Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 fighter jets could be equipped with MBDA's SPEAR and Brimstone missiles​

In order to work with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and incorporate its cutting-edge weaponry into the fighter jets Tejas Mk1A and Mk2, MBDA UK is actively seeking opportunities for collaboration. Through this partnership, India's domestic fighter aircraft capabilities would be combined with the state-of-the-art missile technology from MBDA.

MBDA, which has previously offered India with its ASRAAM and Meteor air-to-air missiles, is now preparing to introduce its SPEAR and Brimstone missiles of the next generation. With these missiles, the Tejas fighter jets would be able to carry out more accurate precision strikes.

SPEAR is a next-generation surface attack weapon that is fired from the air and is designed for use against advanced countermeasures as well as difficult weather circumstances. Because of its beyond-the-horizon range, aircraft can engage targets safely away from adversarial air defense systems.

Close air support weapon Brimstone has demonstrated combat effectiveness against a variety of targets, including fast-moving vehicles, ships, and both land and naval targets. It also has a low collateral damage rate. Indirect and direct attack options are both possible with its deployment.

Integration of MBDA's SPEAR and Brimstone missiles into Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 fighter jets would considerably improve the IAF's operational capabilities and provide superior precision attack options. The expanding strategic partnership in the defense sector between India and the UK is demonstrated by this collaboration.

 

[team]

Tejas spotted carrying ASRAAM Missiles, becoming true triple threat in the WVR arena​

The powerful ASRAAM Close Combat Missile (CCM), manufactured by the MBDA, has been seen mounted on the formidable Tejas light combat aircraft. The addition of a third Within-Visual-Range (WVR) missile to the already deadly arsenal of the fighter is a noteworthy development.

MBDA officials stated earlier this week that the integration of ASRAAM onto Tejas is proceeding adequately, with test flights scheduled for soon. With this combination, Tejas will join the ranks of the Israeli Python-5 and Russian R-73 missiles as a true triple threat in the WVR sector.

A deadly triad for supremacy in the air​

• R-73: This seasoned Russian missile is perfect for close-quarters combat and dogfights because of its high explosive warhead and remarkable mobility.
• Python-5: Known for its maneuverability and seeker technology, the Python-5 is a formidable weapon against hostile aircraft.
• ASRAAM: The most recent feature, ASRAAM enables pilots to engage targets without keeping a firm radar lock by providing infrared homing and "lock-on-after-launch" capabilities.

With this combination of missiles, Tejas pilots can engage in WVR combat with an unmatched level of versatility and lethality. They can now select the ideal weapon for any circumstance, including surprise strikes and head-on confrontations.

Not all of the integration of ASRAAM is about boosting Tejas' offensive power. It also represents a significant advancement toward India's independence in the production of weaponry. The productive partnership with MBDA opens the door for upcoming domestic WVR missile projects, lowering reliance on imports.

With the addition of ASRAAM, the Tejas is prepared to dominate the WVR battlefield. India's aviation superiority will be maintained for years to come because its pilots will be equipped with the courage and weaponry to take on any aerial foe. This demonstrates how India's defence goals are driven by a persistent pursuit of innovation and strategic partnerships.

 

[team]

A contract for 97 additional LCA-Tejas Mk1A is expected in 2024, with cost remains same​

On November 30, 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), presided over by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, approved the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the purchase of 97 additional LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets.

After the AoN, contracts are usually collaborated out with manufacturers and then sent to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which is led by the Prime Minister. Nonetheless, the transaction likely to go smoothly because the aircraft to be acquired were already ordered in 2021, including an agreement for 83 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. The Indian Air Force (IAF) does not expect to require any major modifications to the aircraft, and HAL is striving to raise the percentage of indigenous material in the second batch from 65% to 80%.

HAL sources state that each Tejas Mk1A jet will not likely cost more than Rs 315 crore, and that the unit cost is not expected to rise. This is because the supply chains and manufacturing facilities are already in place, and since the second-order book was cleared in less than two years, it is unlikely that price modifications related to inflation will be taken into account. The IAF and HAL expect to complete the contract by mid-2024.

HAL opened its Nashik assembly line, which had previously manufactured Su-30MKI fighter jets, to create LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, thereby expanding its LCA-Tejas production line. HAL can deliver 24 aircraft annually beginning in 2026 thanks to its three LCA-Tejas production lines. This would enable the faster induction of the 97 LCA-Tejas Mk1A planes that are planned for next year's order.

 

[team]

Nigeria, Philippines and Egypt are keen to procure Tejas Light Combat aircraft: HAL Chief​

The Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., CB Ananthakrishnan, stated on Wednesday that Nigeria, the Philippines, Argentina, and Egypt have expressed interest in acquiring Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.

According to CB Ananthakrishnan, discussions about a potential purchase are ongoing with these nations. At an event, CB Ananthakrishnan told, "Nigeria, Philippines, and Egypt are keen to procure Tejas Light Combat aircraft."

As the Tejas jets contain some components sourced from the United Kingdom, the Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) stated that a solution would be devised regarding India's supply to Argentina should the procurement be successful.

The United Kingdom put a halt to military sales to Argentina following the 1982 Falklands War, with a particular focus on equipment produced by British companies.

In light of the restrictions imposed by the United Kingdom, India may encounter challenges in obtaining military assets comprised of British-origin components.

The Argentine defence minister visited India in July with the goal of strengthening defence industry partnerships.

The Argentinean Air Force and the HAL had an agreement in place for the HAL to service and supply spare parts for its two-ton class helicopters.

Defence ties between India and the Philippines have been strengthening in recent years.

A $375 million agreement was reached in January between the Philippines and India to purchase three BrahMos cruise missile batteries.

The Tejas is a single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft that can operate in high-threat airspace. It is intended to perform strike, maritime reconnaissance, and air defence duties.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will primarily use Tejas aircraft. It has already introduced close to 40 Tejas of the initial model.

The defence ministry and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. inked a Rs 48,000 crore agreement in February 2021 for the IAF to purchase 83 Tejas MK-1A aircraft. The government gave preliminary approval last month to buy an extra batch of 97 Tejas jets for the Indian Air Force.

 

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To Increase LCA-Tejas Aircraft Indigenous Content, DRDO Will boost Uttam AESA Radar Production​

In response to the growing demand for the LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is preparing to put orders for the Uttam AESA Fire Control Radar (FCR). The radar will replace the Israeli ELM-2052 AESA radar currently installed on the LCA-Tejas Mk1A.

There will likely be a demand spike for the Uttam AESA FCR as a result of the anticipated acceleration of LCA-Tejas Mk1A production starting in 2025. A private company engaged in the radar's production anticipates orders for more than 40 units.

The HAL-supplied ELM-2052 AESA radar will be installed on the first 40 LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, while the Uttam AESA FCR will be installed on later batches. It is anticipated that the switch to the Uttam AESA FCR will happen in 2026–2027, following the completion of 40 Tejas Mk1A fighter jet manufacturing.

All 97 LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets that the Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to order from HAL shortly will only employ the Uttam AESA FCR as their primary radar. The radar will also be taken into consideration for the Tejas Mk1 fighter plane upgrading programme.

Compared to the ELM-2052 AESA radar, the Uttam AESA FCR has better tracking accuracy, a longer detection range, and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities. Additionally, the radar's design makes it lighter and more compact, which makes it more appropriate for integration with the LCA-Tejas aircraft.

 

[team]

First Squadron of Tejas Mark 1A will be Deployed at Nal air base Rajasthan​

The Indian Air Force intends to establish the first squadron of indigenous LCA Mark1A fighter aircraft at the Nal air base in Rajasthan's Bikaner region, close to the Pakistan border. Equipped with latest indigenous radars and systems, the aircraft will be far more sophisticated than the current LCA Mark1 Tejas fighters.

“The first squadron of the LCA Mark1A fighters is planned to be based out of the Nal air base in Rajasthan and would be inducted in one of the two MiG-21 Bison squadrons deployed presently there,” defence sources told ANI

According to them, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited aims to deliver the first LCA Mark1A aircraft to the Indian Air Force by February or March next year.

With 83 aircraft now in production and another 97 approved by the central government, a large-scale manufacturing of the LCA Mark1A fighters is presently planned.

In addition to the forty LCA Mark-1 Tejas fighters, 220 LCA Mark 1 and LCA Mark 1A aircraft are scheduled to be placed into service over the course of the next eight to ten years.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is also speeding up the production of fighter jets. By 2025, they hope to be making 24 jets every year.

The Indian Air Force will swap out its stockpile of MiG series aircraft for LCA variants.

Its MiG-21, MiG-23, and MiG-27 aircraft would be replaced by the LCA Mark1A aircraft. Although the force has already phased out the MIG-23 and MiG-27, two squadrons of the vintage MiG-21 are still in service and will soon be phased out as well.

In the future, the Indian Air Force is also intended to replace the Mirage-2000 and Jaguar aircraft with indigenous fighters.

According to plans, by the end of the following decade the Indian Air Force will be primarily composed of ten squadrons of LCA Mark 1 and Mark 1A, twelve to thirteen squadrons of LCA Mark-2, and thirteen squadrons of the Su-30MKI, an advanced medium combat aircraft of Russian origin.

One thing is also certain: the Indian Air Force will only operate "Made in India" fighter aircraft going forward, and it will need about 120 indigenous Multirole Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) to match the capabilities of the two Rafale fighter squadrons in order to have the necessary capability to counter threats from both fronts.

When Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a flight in the LCA trainer aircraft—which was only delivered to the Indian Air Force in early October of this year—the indigenous fighter aircraft got a significant boost.

The high brass of the Indian Air Force, commanded by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, has been totally supportive of indigenous programmes and has achieved significant success in this arena.

The Indian Air Force is also seeking to indigenize the Su-30MKI fighters by outfitting them with cutting-edge indigenous avionics and weaponry.

It is also in charge of an initiative to purchase 156 Light Combat Helicopters, 90 of which will be used by the Indian Army and 66 by the Indian Air Force.

In its most recent meeting, the Defence Acquisition Council approved three significant domestic projects for the Indian Air Force, totaling more than Rs 1.74 lakh crore. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited would work in conjunction with businesses in the private sector to complete all three projects.

 

[team]

HAL successfully integrated UAE-developed precision-guided weapon into Tejas fighter jet​

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) of India stated at the Dubai Airshow 2023 that the Al Tariq precision-guided weapon (PGW) has been successfully integrated into the LCA-Tejas fighter plane. Manufactured by Al Tariq, a subsidiary of EDGE Group, the Al Tariq PGW is a weapon system developed in the UAE.

Sources with knowledge of the programme stated that feasibility studies have been carried out to ensure the PGW's safe and easy integration with the LCA-Tejas aircraft. The Al Tariq PGW trials are expected to start in the first half of the next year.

The integration of the Al Tariq PGW into the LCA-Tejas fighter jet is a major step forward that increases the platform's performance and demonstrates its versatility in accommodating various weaponry from different nations. Because of its open architecture, the LCA-Tejas can use many weaponry produced in the UAE, the US, Israel, Russia, and even the US.

India wants to boost the LCA-Tejas' attractiveness in the Middle Eastern and African markets, where the UAE has significant foothold, which is why it is keen to incorporate the Al Tariq PGW. By incorporating a weapon system developed in the UAE, India hopes to make the LCA-Tejas a more appealing alternative for potential buyers in these regions.

The LCA-Tejas fighter jet's and the Al Tariq PGW's combined capabilities are demonstrated by the effective integration. It illustrates India's dedication to developing and manufacturing cutting-edge weaponry as well as its readiness to work with foreign partners to strengthen its defence capabilities.

 

[team]

No. 3 Squadron (“Cobras”) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will acquire modern Tejas Mk1A fighter jets​

With the introduction of the cutting-edge Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, No. 3 Squadron ("Cobras") of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will undergo a significant upgrade. The squadron's ability to conduct vital Close Air Support (CAS) and reconnaissance missions will be greatly improved by these aircraft.

Another significant milestone is reached at the same time as the Tejas Mk1A arrives. Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth will be the first female LCA Tejas Mk1A pilot of No. 3 Sqn. As of right now, Lt. Kanth is the first fully commissioned female fighter pilot in the IAF, flying the MiG-21. Her transfer to the new aircraft will be a major step towards gender parity in the IAF.

Both the Tejas Mk1A and Lt. Kanth being the squadron's first female pilot mark a significant turning point for No. 3 Sqn. With more diversity and cutting-edge technology, the squadron is well-positioned to build on its outstanding history and continue to be a key player in protecting India's territorial skies.

At this time, No. 3 Sqn operates the MiG-21 Bison, an IAF mainstay that has been in service for decades. A major advancement in technology and operational efficiency will occur with the switch to the Tejas Mk1A.

Compared to its predecessor, the Tejas Mk1A has a number of advantages, such as:

• Improved air-to-ground combat capabilities: The Tejas Mk1A's upgraded radar and targeting systems enable more accurate and successful combat-assistance missions.
• Modern avionics and navigation system: These improve situational awareness and help pilots make better decisions in challenging combat situations.
• More effective self-defense mechanisms: The Tejas Mk1A can withstand harsh settings thanks to its sophisticated electronic warfare and defensive countermeasures.

 

[team]

GTRE and a private company are developing SOPs for integrating Kaveri engine into LCA Tejas​

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and a private Indian company have teamed up to create the standard operating procedures (SOPs) required for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas to incorporate the Kaveri engine. The project, which is preparing for limited flying trials of the aircraft fitted with the domestic Kaveri engine for technological demonstration objectives, has advanced significantly with this collaboration.

A new engine's integration into an existing aircraft is a difficult procedure that needs to be carefully planned and carried out. To obtain the best performance and safety, the engine, propulsion subsystem, and air inlet must all work together flawlessly.

Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are essential documentation that specify how complicated systems, such as the Kaveri engine working with the Tejas airframe, are to be operated and maintained. It offer detailed instructions to pilots, technicians, and ground staff to ensure the aircraft's safe and efficient operation.

Although the aircraft manufacturer is obligated to design and integrate the air inlet system, the engine manufacturer retains responsibility for the engine itself. To guarantee seamless integration and peak performance, this responsibility sharing requires precise and well-defined interfaces between the engine and aircraft systems.

Once the required software has been developed, the next stage is to determine which configuration is best for the complete propulsion system. This involves carefully considering the performance of each component separately as well as how they interact to affect the overall performance and safety of the aircraft.

The planned limited flight testing will provide significant information into the integrated system's performance and potential. The obtained data will play a pivotal role in subsequent refinements and optimisations, ultimately facilitating the implementation of Tejas aircraft with the Future High Thrust Variant of the Kaveri engine.

 

[team]

India Actively Promoting Tejas Mk1A to Friendly Nations, As Evidenced by Talks with Nigeria​

India's Defence Secretary, Giridhar Aramane, revealed an ambitious plan to actively market the Tejas Mk1A fighter plane for export to friendly countries. In order to export the domestic Tejas fighter jet, the Indian government is presently in negotiations with Nigeria.

This move is driven by its determination to fortify defence relationships and promote international cooperation.

Aramane stressed India's readiness to provide the Tejas at a reasonable cost and its ability to modify the machinery to satisfy the unique needs of possible buyer countries.

The Tejas Mk1A, an aircraft developed by India's indigenous aerospace industry, is evidence of the country's progress in cutting-edge weapon systems.

The lightweight, multi-role Tejas fighter aircraft, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is well-known for its agility, state-of-the-art avionics, and strong performance.

Because of its improvements and augmentations, the Mk1A variant is a compelling option for countries looking for a modern, dependable fighter plane.

Giridhar Aramane's announcement is indicative of India's aggressive strategy to showcase its national defence capabilities internationally.

By vigorously marketing the Tejas Mk1A to friendly countries, the government is demonstrating its dedication to forging deeper defence ties and increasing its presence in the global defence market.

India's continuing negotiations with Nigeria over the sale of Tejas fighter planes are a prime example of its outreach in both diplomacy and strategy. With its sophisticated capabilities, the Tejas may be able to meet Nigeria's defence requirements, strengthening ties between the two countries.

If successful, this collaboration might open the path for stronger bilateral ties and shared defence technology knowledge.