SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) continues its efforts to convince the Indian Navy to acquire Naval LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) platforms. In September 2024, the DRDO chief reiterated the organization’s push for an order of 8-10 Naval LCA aircraft, initially intended for pilot training.
However, the Indian Navy reportedly has broader ambitions for the Naval LCA, envisioning roles beyond pilot training for its aircraft carrier operations. This aligns with the Aeronautical Development Agency’s (ADA) plans to showcase the Naval LCA’s potential for Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T).
MUM-T is a revolutionary concept that integrates manned and unmanned aerial platforms to significantly enhance operational capabilities. The ADA intends to demonstrate MUM-T functionalities using the LCA-Navy prototype, including formation flying, information sharing, task execution, formation re-routing, and recovery. This demonstration is anticipated to take place sometime between 2025 and 2026.
The successful demonstration of MUM-T technology is crucial for its future integration into advanced fighter jets like the TEDBF (Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter) and AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft). These next-generation aircraft are expected to be equipped with sophisticated MUM-T capabilities, allowing for coordinated operations in complex environments and improved mission effectiveness.
The potential benefits of MUM-T are significant. It can enhance situational awareness, extend operational reach, and distribute tasks between manned and unmanned platforms, optimizing crew workload and minimizing risk. DRDO’s demonstration with the Naval LCA will pave the way for the widespread adoption of MUM-T in Indian military aviation, potentially revolutionizing the way air combat is conducted.
The ongoing dialogue between DRDO and the Indian Navy regarding the Naval LCA highlights India’s commitment to developing and deploying cutting-edge technologies like MUM-T. The successful demonstration using the Naval LCA will be a major milestone in this endeavour.
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