The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has announced plans to refurbish and display the Tejas Technology Demonstrator 2 (TD2) aircraft at the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad.
The TD2, a pivotal aircraft in the development of India's Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program, will serve as a static exhibit at the ORANGE Facility, renowned for its Outdoor Radar Cross Section (RCS) testing capabilities.
The TD2, which first took flight on June 6, 2002, played a crucial role in validating various systems and aerodynamic configurations for the Tejas fighter jet. It completed 305 developmental flights and was uniquely designed to accommodate the Kaveri engine for in-flight testing.
The refurbishment project will involve several modifications to prepare the aircraft for its static display role. These include:
- Stabilization: A mechanism will be installed to lock the main landing gear doors, ensuring the aircraft's stability on the raised platform.
- Armament Simulation: An R73 pylon will be fitted, along with dummy launchers and missiles, to enhance the aircraft's visual representation as a combat jet.
- Aesthetic Enhancements: Missing wing fuselage fairings will be replaced, and portions of missing fairings and rubber seals will be installed to improve the aircraft's overall appearance.
The LCA Tejas program has since matured, with the Tejas now serving as a fully operational and combat-ready fighter aircraft in the Indian Air Force. The TD2 exhibit will stand as a testament to the program's journey and India's growing aerospace capabilities.
