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SOURCE: AFI

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the premier Indian organization spearheading advanced fighter jet development, is seeking consultants to assist in critical aspects of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programs. ADA’s latest tenders indicate a need for expertise in Engine Electrical and Avionics interface, test cell development for the GE F414 INS6 engine, and Real-Time Model (RTM) integration and testing.

This move underscores ADA’s efforts to ramp up the development of the LCA Mk2, also referred to as the Tejas Mk2, and India’s ambitious 5th-generation fighter, the AMCA. These projects are key elements of India’s indigenous defense manufacturing strategy, aiming to enhance the nation’s self-reliance in advanced military technologies.

For the LCA Mk2 and AMCA platforms, ADA is focused on integrating cutting-edge avionics and electrical systems with the GE F414 INS6 engines. The GE F414, a powerful and proven engine already in use on multiple international fighter jets, requires a robust interface for avionics and electrical systems to ensure optimized performance. ADA’s search for consultants with specialized expertise in this area reflects the complexity of the task, as integration must consider engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall flight characteristics.

The development and integration of the avionics interface involve several critical tasks, including systems synchronization and communication between the engine and the fighter’s onboard computers. Additionally, the avionics must ensure smooth communication between engine controls, flight control systems, and pilot displays, while meeting stringent safety standards.

ADA also seeks to establish a dedicated test cell to evaluate and refine the GE F414 INS6 engine, which will power both the LCA Mk2 and AMCA. The test cell is intended to simulate real-world conditions, allowing engineers to test and troubleshoot the engine in a controlled environment before it is integrated into aircraft.

Developing this test cell involves designing a sophisticated facility equipped with sensors, data collection, and real-time monitoring systems. These features are crucial for evaluating the F414’s performance under various conditions and for ensuring its compatibility with indigenous aircraft designs. This test cell will not only support the ongoing development of LCA Mk2 and AMCA but also serve as a national asset, reducing reliance on foreign testing facilities and accelerating timelines for future projects.

Real-Time Model (RTM) integration and testing is another focus area in ADA’s latest consultancy requirements. RTM is a simulation-based approach that allows engineers to evaluate and test aircraft systems in real-time, ensuring that all components—from engines to avionics—interact seamlessly. By incorporating RTM, ADA aims to enhance both the accuracy and speed of its testing protocols for the LCA Mk2 and AMCA.

The integration of RTM enables faster iteration cycles, reducing development timelines and costs. This approach also ensures that ADA can identify and address potential issues at early stages, thus mitigating risks associated with complex systems integration. For aircraft such as the LCA Mk2 and AMCA, RTM will provide critical insights into how these advanced fighters perform in various mission scenarios, underlining ADA’s commitment to rigorous testing standards.