DRDO delivers 1st batch of indigenous parts for LCA Tejas Mk1A to HAL

Utkarsh Classes Last Updated 20-04-2024

DRDO delivers 1st batch of indigenous parts for LCA Tejas Mk1A to HAL

Defence 4 min read

The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) handed over the first batch of indigenous Leading Edge Actuators and Airbrake Control Module for LCA Tejas MK1A to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on 19 April 2024.

An important achievement in aeronautical technology:

It has been handed over to HAL by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). This is an important achievement towards self-reliance in aeronautical technologies. HAL, Lucknow has already made preparations for production of these to meet the existing order of 83 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas MK1A.

LCA-Tejas equipped with state-of-art leading edge slats & airbrakes:

The secondary flight controls of LCA-Tejas include state-of-the-art leading edge slats and airbrakes. The components feature advanced servo-valve-based electro-hydraulic actuators and control modules.
These are equipped with high pressure, featuring control modules, amazing design, precise manufacturing and testing. It also symbolizes the Aeronautical Development Agency's continued research into indigenous technical skills.

Coordination with ADA, RCI and CMTI on new technology:

ADA is working in collaboration with Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad and Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) Bengaluru.
ADA plans to achieve self-reliance in these technologies through coordination with them. Successful flight tests for the Leading Edge actuators and airbrake control modules have paved the way for production.

Production of critical components at HAL Lucknow:

These critical components are being produced at Accessories Division, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Lucknow. This is a significant progress towards enhancing India's aircraft and spacecraft manufacturing capabilities.
Certification agencies like CEMILAC and Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA) as well as public and private industries including Godrej Aerospace, Mumbai have been instrumental in this effort.

Key organizations involved in the production of LCA Tejas MK1A:

The production of LCA Tejas Mk1A has been contributed by many leading institutions. This mainly includes the following:
- Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) Bengaluru
- Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad
- Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) Bengaluru
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Bengaluru

Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA):

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) was established in 1984 to oversee the production of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) in India.
ADA is under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. The headquarters of ADA is located in Bangalore.