SOURCE: AFI
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has significantly advanced its expertise in composite materials through the development of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). This progression marks a pivotal shift in Indian aerospace technology, demonstrating that composites can not only make aircraft lighter but also substantially reduce their radar cross-section (RCS), thereby enhancing stealth capabilities.
HAL’s experience with composites in the Tejas program is extensive, with roughly 45% of the aircraft’s structure being made from composite materials, including carbon composites. This has resulted in a notable weight reduction – up to 20% in the airframe – which directly translates to improved fuel efficiency and extended combat range or endurance. The Tejas, with its composite construction, is one of the lightest fighters in its class, which is a testament to HAL’s capability in leveraging advanced materials for aerospace applications.
The use of composites in the Tejas also serves a critical role in reducing the aircraft’s RCS. Composites, particularly carbon composites, have properties that scatter radar waves, making the aircraft less visible to enemy radar systems. This stealth enhancement is crucial for modern combat scenarios where detection avoidance can mean the difference between mission success and failure. Moreover, the design includes radar-absorbent materials and twisted air-intake ducts, further decreasing the aircraft’s detectability.
While composites inherently come with a higher price tag than traditional metals like aluminum, the strategic benefits they offer often justify the additional expense. The initial investment in composites can be seen as a trade-off for long-term gains in performance and capability. When juxtaposed with the costs associated with other high-end combat aircraft like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI (Flanker), the incremental cost for composites in the Tejas seems reasonable. The Flanker, for instance, has been a significant expenditure for the Indian Air Force, and investing slightly more in Tejas for its composite benefits could lead to a quantum leap in capability, particularly in terms of stealth and agility.
The argument for using composites in the Tejas is not just about cost versus benefit but also about strategic military advantage. The Tejas, with its advanced composite structure, provides an indigenous solution that reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, which is a key aspect of national security and technological sovereignty. Furthermore, the adaptability and maintainability of composites can reduce long-term operational costs despite their initial high price.