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18th May 2024 (11 Topics)

Upgraded Tejas Mk1A Fighter Aircraft

Context

The Tejas Mk1A, an advanced version of India's indigenous supersonic fighter aircraft, is poised to bolster the Indian Air Force's capabilities. This upgraded variant builds upon the success of the Tejas programme initiated in the late 1980s.

Features of Tejas Mk1A:

  • It incorporates almost 50% more indigenous content compared to its predecessor.
  • With 40 enhancements, it promises advanced capabilities.
  • Equipped with the Israel EL/M-2025 AESA Radar, soon to be replaced by the indigenous Uttam AESA Radar.
  • It offers improved situational awareness with a larger canopy and enhanced aerodynamics.
  • Capable of carrying various weaponry, including Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles and Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air missiles (ASRAAM).
  • Features an indigenously developed digital fly-by-wire flight control system.

Significance of Tejas:

  • The Tejas programme was conceived to replace aging MiG-21 and Su-7 aircraft.
  • Tejas is the lightest and smallest aircraft in its class, with a composite structure contributing to its lightness.
  • It boasts versatile capabilities for ground attack, interception, air-to-air combat, and air defense.
  • The Mk1, Mk1A, and Mk2 variants are slated to replace aging MiG-21, MiG-29, and SEPECAT Jaguar aircraft in the Indian Air Force.

Fact Box: Uttam Radar

  • The Uttam Radar can track multiple targets and reportedly has a range of more than 200 km to give the aircraft a 360-degree scanned view of its surroundings.
  • It will be used in the later variants like TEJAS MK-2 and the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighters (TEDBF).
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