SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a strategic move to optimize defence resources and promote Indigenous manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is poised to integrate the Indian Air Force (IAF) into the Indian Navy’s Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program. This decision aims to address the substantial funding and production requirements of the TEDBF project, which are comparable to those of the IAF’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.
The TEDBF program, designed to replace the ageing MiG-29K fleet onboard the Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers, requires significant investment. The Navy has outlined a need for approximately 145 units. However, the MoD has initially approved the procurement of 80 units. To ensure the financial viability of this project and to attract private sector involvement, it’s estimated that around 200 jets need to be produced.
A larger order size would reduce per-unit costs, making the program more attractive for private companies to invest in manufacturing and development. By increasing the order, the MoD aims to leverage private sector capabilities, fostering a more competitive and innovative defence industry within India.
Both the TEDBF and AMCA programs are set to share several critical components, which presents an opportunity for cost-saving and technological harmonization. Both aircraft will utilize similar LRUs, which are components that can be easily replaced at the field level, thus reducing the complexity and cost of maintenance. The avionics suites for both jets are expected to have significant overlap, allowing for shared development costs and quicker integration of new technologies.
Initially, both platforms will be powered by the GE F-414 engines. However, looking forward, they are slated to receive new high-powered 110kN engines developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) for the AMCA program. This not only streamlines logistics but also sets a path for future upgrades.
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