SOURCE: AFI
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has confirmed a key update regarding the development timeline of the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF), marking a significant shift in the program’s schedule. In line with earlier reports by idrw.org, ADA has stated that the TEDBF will likely enter service with the Indian Navy in 2038, several years later than initially anticipated. This updated timeline has been attributed to a recalibration of the program’s milestones and an adjustment in the development process.
The TEDBF, a crucial component of India’s naval aviation future, is being developed to replace the aging fleet of Sea Harrier aircraft and complement the Indian Navy’s existing fleet of MiG-29K fighters. Designed for operations from aircraft carriers, the TEDBF is expected to deliver improved performance, enhanced survivability, and greater operational flexibility for the Indian Navy.
According to ADA, the next key milestone in the TEDBF program will be the anticipated clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which is expected to occur by 2026. The CCS clearance will mark a significant step forward in securing the necessary funding and government approval to move ahead with the program.
The first flight of the TEDBF is projected to take place by 2029-2030, a delay from earlier expectations. The delay is due to a range of factors, including the need to refine the design, ensure the integration of advanced systems, and carry out extensive testing to meet the stringent requirements for naval operations. Despite the delays, the TEDBF’s first flight is expected to be a major milestone, showcasing the aircraft’s performance and setting the stage for future development.
Following the first flight, the TEDBF is expected to undergo extensive testing, design iterations, and integration with Indian Navy assets, including aircraft carriers. The planned service entry date for the aircraft is now projected to be 2038, pushing the timeline forward by nearly a decade from earlier projections. The delays are primarily attributed to the complexity of developing a new, advanced naval fighter that must meet the rigorous demands of carrier-based operations.
The TEDBF will be a twin-engine, multirole aircraft capable of performing a variety of roles, from air superiority missions to precision strike capabilities, while operating from India’s next-generation aircraft carriers. With its advanced avionics, weapon systems, and improved range, the TEDBF will offer enhanced capabilities over its predecessors, particularly in terms of survivability and effectiveness in contested airspace.
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