From THE PRINT INDIA: Tejas cleared for IAF: Implications for the service, & its chequered history with Indian fighters
Summary
PAST:
Project Started in 1983, India wanted to replace Mig-21. Which it failed to do so due to:
i- Technology Denial by the western countries.
ii- India was proficient in some technologies i.e metallurgy. Owing to the great Metallurgy Scientist, the head of DRDO Auranachalam.
iii- But India didn't have the technology of engine, radar, avionics etc.
iv- India started domestic engine Kaveri engine, which failed.
Tejas took its first flight in 2001, after western technology denial ended, and Tejas flew with American General Electric Engine.
Present:
Tejas is 50% indigenous and there is no shame in it: Engine, Avionics, Radar, Electronic Warfare suits, Ejection seats are all imported systems.
20 Tejas MK1 are in IOC (initial Operational Clearance), 20 of them are in FOC (Final Operational Clearance), 20 more are delivered in jan 2021.
Tejas MK1 can fire BVR Derby from Israel.........
FUTURE:
Tejas MK1A will start to roll out in 2023-24 with some newer systems, which will be better much than JF-17:
i- Aesa RADAR, will be able to track 16 targets at the same time
ii- Will be able to launch Astra BVR
iii- Will have mid air refueling probe.......
iv- Enhanced Combat radius, and Electronic warfare ability.
Summary of a video posted by THE PRINT, only shared key points about TEJAS. Its all being said by the Print, and doesn't include or represent my views.
