SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has made a decisive move in the development of the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) by confirming the adoption of a singular design, previously showcased at Aero India 2023. This design, which has now been solidified, adopts a look reminiscent of the Dassault Rafale but uniquely incorporates Diverterless Supersonic Inlets (DSI).
At the Aero India 2023 event, ADA introduced a significant evolution in the TEDBF’s conceptualization, moving from an angled, stealth-oriented nose to a more blunt, rounded nose cone. This design maintains the leading-edge extensions (LEX), canards, and DSI, features that were part of the previous iterations but now set in stone for the production model.
According to sources close to the project and reported by idrw.org, this new configuration is poised to be the definitive design for the TEDBF, pending the final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The project, with an estimated cost of ?14,000 crores, aims to bolster the Indian Navy’s carrier-based combat capabilities with an indigenous fighter jet.
The striking resemblance of the TEDBF to the Rafale, particularly in its silhouette and canopy design, has been noted by many. However, the inclusion of DSI intakes sets the TEDBF apart, offering potential advantages in terms of engine performance, weight reduction, and radar cross-section reduction, which the Rafale does not have.
The DSI intakes are a critical aspect of this design, providing a streamlined pathway for air to the engines, enhancing performance while potentially reducing the aircraft’s radar signature, an essential feature for modern air combat.
The Indian Navy has shown strong commitment to this indigenous fighter by planning to procure at least 80 TEDBF aircraft in the first batch. This number could potentially increase if the Ministry of Defence (MoD) gives the go-ahead for a third aircraft carrier, enhancing the strategic maritime presence of India.
“The decision to finalize this design reflects our commitment to delivering a capable, cost-effective, and technologically advanced platform for our naval forces,” an ADA official stated to idrw.org. The choice of design also underscores India’s push towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aiming to reduce dependency on foreign military hardware.
The TEDBF is envisioned to replace the aging MiG-29K fleet currently serving on the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. It’s designed to perform a variety of missions including air superiority, maritime strike, and electronic warfare, tailored specifically for the challenges of carrier-based operations.
NOTE: Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.