ADA Plans Two Variants of TEDBF with STOBAR for Current Carriers and CATOBAR for Future Carriers

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is taking a forward-looking approach to the development of the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) for the Indian Navy.

Recognizing the Navy's potential transition to a new aircraft carrier configuration in the future, ADA is planning two variants of the TEDBF: one optimized for Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) operations and another for Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR) operations.

India's current aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, utilize the STOBAR configuration, which involves a ski-jump ramp for takeoff and arresting gear for landing. The upcoming second indigenous aircraft carrier, IAC-2, is also expected to feature this configuration.

However, the Indian Navy is considering a shift to CATOBAR for its future carriers, potentially starting with IAC-3. CATOBAR systems use catapults to launch aircraft, enabling heavier payloads and increased operational flexibility.

The TEDBF is being designed primarily for STOBAR carriers, but ADA is incorporating modifications to make it compatible with CATOBAR systems as well. This adaptability will ensure seamless operations across both types of carriers, future-proofing the Navy's air wing capabilities.

To achieve this, the CATOBAR variant of the TEDBF will require several key design modifications:

• Structural reinforcement: To withstand the stresses of catapult launches.
• Landing gear enhancements: For compatibility with Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) and arrestor wire systems.
• Performance optimization: Adjustments in engine thrust and weight distribution to cater to CATOBAR operations.

The Indian Navy is also exploring the development of its own EMALS technology, which would be a significant step forward in carrier operations. EMALS allows for the launch of heavier and more diverse aircraft, including UAVs and AEW&C platforms.

Developing both STOBAR and CATOBAR variants of the TEDBF is a strategic move that ensures operational continuity as the Navy transitions to more advanced carrier configurations. This approach also reinforces India's commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.

The CATOBAR-capable TEDBF will provide the Navy with a modern fighter jet to counter regional threats and secure its maritime interests. With IAC-3 still in the conceptual stage, the Navy has ample time to align its air wing plans with carrier design changes. The TEDBF program is central to this strategy, ensuring India's carrier fleet remains equipped with state-of-the-art fighters well into the future.

 

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[Apocalypse gupta]

A catobar carrier is at least 25 years away. ADA should focus on things needed now.

 

[tasks discussion]

I think they displayed a small working prototype of EMALS a few days back.

 

[Aloo]

A catobar carrier is at least 25 years away. ADA should focus on things needed now.

That's what is mention in the article I guess.

Not putting time and resource in making it CATOBAR worthy, but leaving room for future addition of CATOBAR ability. If not done now, people will cry 25 years later at Navy and ADA for being shortsighted.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

DRDO: The objective of Dare to Dream 5.0 is to provide the right platform to the nation's innovators in order to unearth & realize their disruptive ideas and concepts in different disciplines of emerging technologies possessing military and dual-use identified by DRDO for enhancing defense capabilities. Go to DRDO portal.

 

[Sandeep]

I think they displayed a small working prototype of EMALS a few days back.

Yes they did so work is ongoing on developing an indigenous EMALS system.

 

[Sandeep]

Currently they are developing and testing out an indigenous EMALS which is essential if we want to improve the type of aircraft we want to launch.

It might be better to develop a brand new 5th generation naval stealth jet for the EMALS carrier as we need the stealth jets. It’s better to keep the TEDBF for the current and upcoming carrier only as converting it for EMALS launches will require major modifications and it’s not designed for that technology. We should use whatever technology we can from the AMCA to come up with a new jet.

 

[Vikas Yadav 007]

"The Indian Navy and ADA's approach to integrating advanced technologies into their fighter jets is truly commendable. The Rafale M, with its dual-mode capability and compatibility with Satobar and Catobar/EMALS launch systems, sets a high standard for future naval aviation platforms.

The upcoming TEDBF program aims to develop a 4.5+ generation fighter jet that will replace the aging MiG-29. This new aircraft will boast advanced avionics, a higher thrust engine, and the ability to carry a range of weapons, including the BrahMos-A NG missile and the Astra-mark 3 & future hypersonic missile.

The TEDBF's design will also incorporate the latest advancements in Catobar & EMALES launched technology, which will enable the aircraft to operate efficiently from India's future aircraft carriers. This technology will also pave the way for the development of the Naval AMCA, a next-generation 5th fighter jet that will be powered by a 120KN thrust engine and feature advanced avionic, sensor ,AI and machine learning capabilities like F35B+ &F35C +.

With its cutting-edge design and advanced technologies, the TEDBF is poised to become a game-changer for the Indian Navy's fighter jet capabilities."