ADA Begins Development of 1700-Litre and 1300-Litre Drop Tanks for Tejas Mk2, Promising Longer-Range Missions and Increased Deployment

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has announced the commencement of a project to develop new external fuel tanks, commonly known as "drop tanks," for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2. These tanks are crucial for increasing the aircraft's range, providing greater flexibility in mission planning and execution.

Drop tanks are supplementary fuel containers that can be externally mounted on an aircraft. This significantly boosts the aircraft's fuel capacity, allowing it to fly for longer distances.

An added advantage is the ability to detach ("jettison") these tanks mid-flight. This feature allows pilots to reduce the aircraft's weight, improving maneuverability, particularly in combat situations or emergencies.

The LCA Tejas Mk2 will utilize two distinct types of drop tanks. The first, a 1700-litre capacity tank (designated DT1700), is designed for attachment to the inner sections of the wings. When empty, this elliptically shaped tank weighs approximately 140 kilograms.

The second type, a 1300-litre tank (DT1300), is intended for placement beneath the fuselage. It has an empty weight of around 120 kilograms and features a conical nose and rear.

The standard configuration for the LCA Tejas Mk2 will involve a total of three drop tanks: two of the 1700-litre tanks on the wings and one 1300-litre tank under the fuselage.This increases total fuel capacity of Tejas MK2 by 4700 Litre.

The addition of these drop tanks represents a significant enhancement to the capabilities of the Tejas Mk2. By extending its operational range, the aircraft will be able to undertake longer missions and be deployed in a wider variety of scenarios, bolstering India's strategic defence capabilities.

The Tejas Mk2, developed by the ADA, is an improved version of the original Tejas LCA, featuring a more powerful engine, increased weapon payload capacity, and updated avionics.

 

[T54]

They haven't made one yet, for something that is supposed to be rolled out in 2025.

The Israelis have and used 3000Litre tanks on F-16s during the air strike on Iraqi nuclear reactor Osirak . DRDO must also design 2000 litres , 2500 litre fuel tanks to increase external fuel carrying Capacity to 6000-6300 litres .

 

[P2S2]

The Israelis have and used 3000Litre tanks on F-16s during the air strike on Iraqi nuclear reactor Osirak . DRDO must also design 2000 litres , 2500 litre fuel tanks to increase external fuel carrying Capacity to 6000-6300 litres .

Yes. Efficiently utilise our present resources. Fielding massive numbers of fighters, saturating our territory with unpassable beams puts stealth in its place, glide bombs visible. Space intelligence could be further developed that's where big money is needed. We could upgrade further our navy integrate commercial ferry services and employment of seafarers through its affiliates. Safety is a necessity, we could turn ourselves as prime providers whether here or beyond. An eye should be left open to recoup expenditures. India a safe bet to assist you whether you are floating in Space or Oceans would return us to the beginnings of time.