SOURCE: AFI
According to the Alpha Defence YouTube channel, The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of India is set to further refine the design of the Tejas Mk2 fighter jet, following crucial wind tunnel tests conducted by the French National Aerospace Research Center, ONERA (Office National d’Études et de Recherches Aérospatiales). These tests have yielded critical data that will influence the optimization of key components such as the air intake and canards, which will be incorporated into the upcoming prototypes of the Tejas Mk2.
ONERA, renowned for its cutting-edge aerodynamic research and development, played a key role in analyzing the airflow dynamics and performance parameters of the Tejas Mk2 in its advanced wind tunnel facilities. The wind tunnel tests, an essential part of aerospace development, simulate real-world flight conditions, allowing engineers to evaluate how various design elements perform under stress.
The focus of these wind tunnel tests was primarily on two areas critical to the Tejas Mk2’s performance: the air intake and canards.
Canards: The canards, which are small, forward-mounted control surfaces, have been incorporated into the Tejas Mk2 design to enhance maneuverability and control at higher angles of attack. The ONERA tests provided valuable data on how the canards influence the jet’s aerodynamic profile, enabling ADA engineers to fine-tune their positioning and shape for maximum effectiveness. Enhanced canard design is expected to improve the aircraft’s agility, stability, and handling in combat situations.
Air Intake Design: The air intake system of a fighter jet is vital for ensuring optimal airflow to the engine, which directly impacts thrust and overall performance. ONERA’s tests provided insights into how the Tejas Mk2’s air intake can be optimized for improved efficiency, reducing drag and enhancing airflow even at high speeds and altitudes. These refinements are expected to provide better performance in both supersonic and subsonic flight regimes.
The findings from ONERA will be incorporated into the next batch of Tejas Mk2 prototypes. This stage of optimization is crucial as ADA prepares the Tejas Mk2 for its first flight, expected in the coming years. The enhancements made as a result of these tests will not only improve the fighter’s aerodynamic efficiency but will also contribute to its operational effectiveness in the field.
ONERA’s involvement highlights the collaborative efforts between India and France in aerospace research. Leveraging ONERA’s world-class facilities and expertise in wind tunnel testing allows ADA to ensure that the Tejas Mk2 meets international standards in performance and design. ONERA has conducted similar tests for various international fighter programs, lending further credibility to the aerodynamic improvements being incorporated into the Tejas Mk2.
The Tejas Mk2 is a highly anticipated evolution of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), designed to address the operational needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Unlike its predecessor, the Mk2 features significant upgrades, including a larger fuselage, more powerful GE-F414 engines, enhanced payload capacity, and improved avionics. The introduction of canards and other design enhancements aims to significantly boost the platform’s maneuverability, speed, and combat effectiveness.