SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Navy has decided to extend the operational life of its MiG-29K fleet from the previously planned retirement in 2035 to 2040, following delays in the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program. This adjustment comes as the TEDBF project, intended to replace the ageing MiG-29Ks, awaits official clearance and faces extended development timelines, according to recent reports by idrw.org.
The TEDBF has been in development to address the Indian Navy’s need for a modern, indigenous carrier-based fighter jet. However, with the program still pending critical approvals, the Navy has had to rethink its strategy for maintaining air combat capabilities. A report from idrw.org highlights that the Navy has outlined nearly 14 major features it requires from the TEDBF, which are essential for its operational specifications and readiness.
The first flight of the TEDBF has been rescheduled to late 2029, with production timelines now projected between 2036-2038, pushing back the jet’s readiness to replace the MiG-29K fleet beyond the original 2035 target. This delay is attributed to the complex nature of developing a fighter specifically for carrier operations, which includes extensive developmental flight testing.
The TEDBF will require nearly twice the number of developmental flights compared to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, due to the unique challenges posed by carrier-based operations. Features like auto take-off and auto-landing are crucial for pilot assistance in the high-stress environment of deck-based landings, necessitating rigorous real-world condition testing before the aircraft can be cleared for production.
“The extension of the MiG-29K’s service life is a strategic move to ensure that we do not face a capability gap in our carrier air wings,” explained a Navy offical to idrw.org. “We are committed to the TEDBF program, but we must also be pragmatic about timelines and readiness.”
This extension involves potential life extension programs for the MiG-29K, which might include upgrades to its avionics, radar, and possibly structural enhancements to extend its operational lifespan. These measures aim to keep the fleet viable for another decade, ensuring that the Indian Navy retains a formidable naval air component until the TEDBF can take over.
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.