DRDO Invites Private Sector Collaboration for LCA Tejas Brake Parachute System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a significant initiative to collaborate with private Indian companies for the manufacturing and fabrication of a hybrid Brake Parachute system for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This move aims to bolster indigenous aerospace capabilities and promote self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

The Brake Parachute system plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient landing of the LCA Tejas, particularly on runways with limited space. It supplements the aircraft's primary wheel braking system by reducing the landing run, enhancing operational flexibility and safety.

Hybrid Design and Components​

The LCA Tejas Brake Parachute system boasts a hybrid design, integrating a variety of high-strength textile materials and metal components. These include:

• Textile Materials: Nylon cordage, webbings, and fabrics known for their durability and functionality.
• Metal Parts: Crucial for maintaining structural integrity and ensuring the smooth operation of the system.

Opportunity for Indigenous Aerospace Manufacturing​

DRDO's invitation for collaboration presents a unique opportunity for Indian private companies to actively participate in the country's aerospace manufacturing sector. Companies with expertise in textile engineering, high-strength fabric manufacturing, metal fabrication, and aerospace equipment assembly are particularly encouraged to express their interest.

This collaborative effort aims to foster technological expertise within the Indian private sector, contributing to the nation's self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing. By leveraging the capabilities of private enterprises, DRDO seeks to accelerate the development and production of critical components for the LCA Tejas, further strengthening the Indian Air Force.

The DRDO has a dedicated webpage providing detailed information about the Brake Parachute system and the collaboration opportunity:

https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/inline-files/FBPHfLCA10052024.pdf

 

[Ramvijay Rai]

This is the benefit of indigenization. good

 

[Aravind Raveendran]

About time ,
Tbh , have we been only making nuts and bolts all these years?

 

[Pink Panther]

This the best way to increase Production rate, any components that we import should also be made by private companies, once we source all the components locally We will be immune to any sanctions and will have the freedom to take any international decision.

 

[Mithu Roy]

These are low tech areas.surprised to find that we were importing

 

[beencensured]

These are low tech areas.surprised to find that we were importing

Importing has been India's first choice.

 

[GMR]

It's very good that DRDO is transferring technologies mostly to Private firms of late..👍👍

 

[Rah]

which means we have been importing this .... most likely british ... one of the parts the argentines must have though too much of british!

 

[Sandeep]

Currently we have already developed our own brake parachute. Now they need to give that technology to the private sector who can manufacture it more quickly and at a lower price. This should also give us the opportunity to sell it as well to other countries.

 

[bonito]

These are low tech areas.surprised to find that we were importing

In textile domain this is the high tech area. We never had such high tensile frabric designed and manufactured. For more than 6 decades we had imported thermal coats from Swizz.