When is mk2 due? Recently DRDO seem to have said they are keeping to their timeline.
LCA Tejas Mk1 & Mk1A - News and discussions
- Thread starter Ashwin
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Money not sanctioned yet for the planned 4 prototype s.
Hal building a single prototype using own funds .
Its not confirmed that there will be any replacement of F-16 other than F-35, the proposal is just under study i think. NGAD will also require a lot of budget coz this program may envolve more than one fighter. But you may be right. Lets wait and watch what unfolds in the future.
However, what is really heartening to see is GOI recognising the export opportunities early and giving wholehearted efforts. Even if we dnt succeed today, in future there will be many more opportunities. Somewhere success will be acheived if GOI continues its efforts similarly. Not only will be boost for indigenous aerospace industry but will be good reward for persistent painstaking efforts of those who have been involved in Tejas program.
It seems to be slightly delayed. From first flight in early 2023 to late 2023. But I suppose anytime in 2023 should be considered a win.
The replacement will go ahead since the F-16 sucks. And they need a new jet to attract the low end export market.
Not true at all. MK2 funds were sanctioned in 2009. Around Rs 2000+ setting in the back account of ADA for a decade. They can easily build a few prototypes and design expenses from that. For program completion, additional funds will be needed.
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Were they not produced sometime back? Then this would just be quick confirmation testing and should not take long.
Lets wait and watch if US decides to make any new 4.5 gen aircraft. But even if it comes that will take atleast 2035 to mature. Not sure if Egypt can be made to wait till then. For low end market may be future versions of Red Hawk will be created.
I don't think so with the f-15EX and f-16blk70/72 they really don't need a 4.5 gen aircraft. The f-36 kingsnake seems like a pointless endeavour to be honest.
I also feel the same that there may not be any requirement for another 4.5 gen jet for USAF.
If US decides to make any new 4.5 gen fighter, it can actually make it within 3to4 years to IOC standard and will very potent and mature battle ready/tested FOC standard 4.75 gen fighter by 2030 itself and won't take 2035 to mature.
Why? They already have very mature 4.5 gen fighter LRUs like GaN Aesa, EW Suite, Turbofan engines, carbon composites, mission computers, control laws, etc...
The world's first 4th generation F16 flew from concept (1972) to first flight (1975) in just 3yrs and was a potent mature platform by 1982. That's some 10yrs only in which many new technologies like RSS frame, Fly by Wire, were developed.
Currently all these technologies are available off the shelf and just need an Air frame which can be developed and tested on advanced computer softwares like CATIA (unlike during development of F16 which had to be tested physically over the years painstakingly) and all above tested and matured LRUs integrated to it. So for US the development cycle is very small for 4.75gen fighter...
I agree with you that US can make a 4.5 gen fighter earlier than anybody else after ordering it but the fact that by next year they will only conclude the study whether they need any new 4.5gen fighter (actually 5 minus gen) or not. After that USAF will prepare their requirements, secure budget and then float the tender. Then aerospace companies will do their study and submit the bids. First 2 of them will be selected to build demonstrator then designing, building and flying demonstrators. Selection of winner, finalisation of contract etc etc. Then comes building prototype. Its a long procedure before first flight. Give your 4-5 years after first flight for IOC.
Remember JSF program started in early 1990s and F-35 first flight happened in 2006. Getting through the procedures take a hell lot of time.
As for F-16, RFP was floated in 1972, conceptualisation had commenced way before that.
So those rumored news of LCA mk1A first flight has been delayed were false. Too much against the propoganda against indigenous products.
So basically a MK1 airframe upgraded with MK1A standard equipment and configuration has been flown and tested I guess. Since airframe wise they’re largely the same thing.
That is what was planned altogether. This is great news. It means MK1A deliveries will go as per plan. Hopefully, now MK 2 roll out comes out next as per plans.
Not Gripen C/D and Eurofighter? What is there to replace it?
Tejas Mk1A will defeat anything in Chinese arsenal in BVR combat. If it is offerred with Python V, it will have great WVR capability as well.