SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG


The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has taken a significant step toward advancing the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Airforce Mk2 programme by issuing a tender for the development of its Iron Bird facility. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to evaluate and simulate the Integrated Flight Control System (IFCS) of the LCA Mk2, a critical component in ensuring the aircraft’s performance, safety, and operational readiness.
The Iron Bird facility serves as a ground-based testbed that replicates the aircraft’s subsystems to simulate real-world flight conditions. By recreating the aircraft’s environment on the ground, the facility enables rigorous testing and validation of systems before they are integrated into the actual aircraft. One of the key subsystems being developed for the LCA Mk2 Iron Bird is the Aircraft Hydraulic System, which plays a vital role in powering flight control surfaces, landing gear, and other critical mechanisms.
To drive the hydraulic pumps in this subsystem, ADA has proposed the use of variable speed AC induction electric motors as prime movers. These motors are selected for their excellent power output and precise control characteristics, making them ideal for replicating the dynamic demands of the aircraft’s hydraulic system during testing. The motors, along with their accessories, will be housed in a permanent, fixed building within a controlled environment to support ongoing development activities.
The adoption of induction electric motors underscores ADA’s focus on leveraging advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the LCA Mk2’s development process. By simulating the IFCS and hydraulic system interactions in a controlled setting, the Iron Bird facility will accelerate the validation of the Mk2’s design, paving the way for its certification and eventual induction into the Indian Air Force.
The LCA Mk2, an advanced iteration of the LCA Tejas, features enhanced avionics, improved aerodynamics, and greater combat capabilities, positioning it as a cornerstone of India’s indigenous defense ecosystem. The establishment of the Iron Bird facility marks a crucial milestone in the programme, reflecting ADA’s commitment to innovation and self-reliance in aerospace technology. As development progresses, the facility is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring the LCA Mk2 meets its operational objectives and strengthens India’s air defense capabilities.
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