India's Tejas MkII: Advanced Composites and Co-Curing for a Superior Fighter

India's ambitious Tejas MkII fighter jet program is making significant strides thanks to a groundbreaking collaboration between the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL).

Their focus on advanced composite materials and innovative manufacturing techniques promises a next-generation fighter jet that's lighter, stronger, and more cost-effective than its predecessors.

The Co-Curing Advantage​

At the heart of this technological leap is the co-curing process. Unlike traditional composite manufacturing, co-curing bonds multiple composite layers simultaneously. This has far-reaching benefits:

• Weight Reduction: Fewer individual parts and mechanical joints contribute to a significantly lighter aircraft.
• Enhanced Strength: Co-cured structures boast superior structural integrity due to the seamless integration of components.
• Cost-Efficiency: Fewer parts and simplified assembly procedures translate into reduced manufacturing costs.

India's Composite Innovation​

ADA and NAL have diligently developed high-strength, intermediate modulus carbon composites tailored for the Tejas MkII program.

This breakthrough culminated in the successful creation of a Flaperon structural assembly, formally handed over by NAL to ADA on October 5, 2023 – a major milestone in the project's development.

Transforming the Tejas MkII​

The adoption of co-curing and these indigenously developed composites will be far-reaching within the Tejas MkII's design. Target components for this upgrade include:

• Fin and Rudder: Critical for maneuverability
• Wing Spars: Providing structural backbone to the wings
• Wing-Fuselage Fairings: Smoothing airflow for improved aerodynamics
• Various Fairing Blocks
• Centre Fuselage Components: Core of the aircraft structure
• Under-carriage doors: Protecting landing gear

The Future of India's Aerospace Industry​

The innovations within the Tejas MkII program have broad implications. A lighter, stronger, and more cost-effective fighter aircraft directly enhances India's defence capabilities.

Additionally, the expertise gained in advanced composites and co-curing could pave the way for technological advancements across India's aerospace industry.

 

[Mridul baruah]

Yeah…just like Tejas trainer. Don’t make on time.

You didn't get my sarcasm... did you? These are retirement scheme for those working on the projects. These guys will retire working on the same project.

 

[Amal Chakrabarti]

Sir, as long as HAL does not face consequences, there is no last opportunity.

Usa have Boeing and maritin . China have Chengdu and shengyang . We have just hal

 

[Superpower Bharat]

Why on Earth would you want to make a twin-engine ORCA specifically to test and certify the Kaveri? The IAF has said it is not interested in ORCA. Between AMCA and Tejas Mk 2, they have a good number of jets planned, with MRFA filling in numbers in the near future.

Actually this is the saddest part. If it was any another country they will start a project with there own engine... But we stick to our requirements... no compromise.. We should learn this from S.Korea..

 

[Rinku Pandey]

Actually this is the saddest part. If it was any another country they will start a project with there own engine... But we stick to our requirements... no compromise.. We should learn this from S.Korea..

Does Korea have it's own engine?

 

[Anant]

Actually this is the saddest part. If it was any another country they will start a project with there own engine... But we stick to our requirements... no compromise.. We should learn this from S.Korea..

Boss, we already have a program with the Kaveri engine. That is the Ghatak drone and other UAVs. The Kaveri is just about powerful enough for the Tejas Mk 1, but nothing beyond that in a single engine configuration.

 

[Anant]

Usa have Boeing and maritin . China have Chengdu and shengyang . We have just hal

Agreed. We need a major private player, but to have them in, there needs to be a lot of work and proactiveness from both sides.

 

[sas]

It's all good but what about about the Kaveri engine unless we become self sufficient in engine technology all this is all scratching the surface

 

[SK]

I hope that Tejas-Mk2 will be designed as an equivalent to Saab-Gripen E & will have a total of 11 Hardpoints.