SOURCE: AFI
In 2020, the United Engine Corporation (UEC) announced the development and testing of a new turbofan engine, the RD-93MA. This engine is an improved variant of the RD-93, which currently powers the JF-17 Thunder, the mainstay multi-role fighter of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
The RD-93MA offers several advancements over its predecessor, including increased thermodynamic parameters, an improved fan design, and an advanced automatic powerplant control system. Additionally, UEC has enhanced the engine’s safety features, such as incorporating an emergency engine start mode, which is crucial for single-engine aircraft.
Originally intended to provide a thrust of 91kN, the RD-93MA was designed to offer a significant performance boost compared to the RD-93’s 84kN. While the RD-93MA failed to secure a place in the JF-17 Block-III, it could potentially be a viable option for India’s Tejas Mk1A fighter jet.
Given the ongoing delays in the delivery of the GE F-404 engine for the Tejas Mk1A, the RD-93MA could offer a timely and potentially advantageous alternative. Unlike the RD-33 engines, which are manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the RD-93MA was specifically designed for single-engine fighter jets, incorporating enhanced safety measures tailored to such operations.
The RD-93MA’s improved performance and reliability could make it a compelling choice for the Tejas Mk1A, providing a boost to its capabilities and potentially reducing its dependence on foreign-sourced engines. However, further evaluation and testing would be necessary to assess the suitability of the RD-93MA for the specific requirements of the Tejas Mk1A.