Mishra Dhatu Nigam (MIDHANI), a Hyderabad-based Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has reached a significant milestone by delivering its first consignment of titanium and superalloy products to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
These advanced materials are crucial for manufacturing the airframe and structural parts of the Tejas Mk2 fighter jet, an upgraded variant of India's indigenous light combat aircraft.
The titanium and superalloy products supplied by MIDHANI were developed and manufactured in collaboration with CEMILAC (Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification) and DGAQA (Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance). These agencies played a vital role in ensuring the materials meet the stringent quality and technical specifications required for aerospace applications.
The use of titanium alloys in the Tejas Mk2 airframe ensures high strength, reduced weight, and superior corrosion resistance, all essential for a high-performance, supersonic combat aircraft.
Superalloys, renowned for their ability to maintain strength and performance under extreme temperatures and stress, will further enhance the jet's structural integrity and durability.
The Tejas Mk2 is an advanced version of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), featuring significant upgrades in avionics, payload capacity, and range. With a heavier payload capacity and a more powerful GE F414 engine, the Mk2 version will bridge the gap between the LCA MkI and medium-weight fighter jets, making it a key element of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) future fleet.
The titanium-based airframe parts supplied by MIDHANI are integral to the Mk2's structural design, ensuring the aircraft remains agile and capable of withstanding the rigors of high-speed maneuvers. The prototype of the Tejas Mk2 is expected to roll out by late 2025, with flight testing to follow soon after.
MIDHANI has a long-standing reputation for supplying specialized materials to India's defence and aerospace sectors. Its expertise in developing high-performance alloys and advanced materials has made it a key partner for projects like the Tejas Mk2, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and other indigenous defence platforms.
With the Tejas Mk2 project gaining momentum, MIDHANI's role in delivering high-quality materials will remain critical. As HAL progresses toward rolling out the prototype in 2025, collaboration between defence PSUs and agencies like MIDHANI will ensure the timely availability of crucial components, contributing to India's self-reliance in defence technology.
