In the heart of New Delhi, an ingeniously crafted digital fly-by-wire flight control computer seamlessly melded into the Tejas light combat jet, marking a pivotal stride in the aircraft program, as disclosed by the defense ministry on Tuesday.

The indigenous Tejas, a solitary-engine multi-role combat aircraft designed for high-threat aerial environments, stands proficient in air defense, maritime reconnaissance, and strike capacities. A momentous juncture in the Tejas Mk1A program unfolded with the integration of the digital fly-by-wire flight control computer (DFCC) into the prototype LSP7, taking to the skies with aplomb on February 19, according to the defense ministry.

Developed domestically by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru exclusively for the Tejas-Mk1A version, the DFCC underwent meticulous scrutiny, with all critical parameters and flight control performance registering commendable satisfaction, the ministry articulated in a statement. The inaugural flight, orchestrated by Wing Commander Siddarth Singh KMJ (Retd) of the National Flight Test Centre, heralded a successful milestone.

The Indian Air Force has already commissioned the Tejas LCA Mk1, with the upgraded Tejas MK1A boasting an array of enhancements, including an advanced mission computer, a high-performance digital flight control computer (DFCC Mk1A), smart multi-function displays (SMFD), an advanced electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an advanced self-protection jammer, and an electronic warfare suit, as elucidated by the ministry.

Commending the collaborative efforts of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the IAF, ADA, and associated industries, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the successful flight test of this pivotal system for Tejas Mk1A as a substantial stride towards ‘atmanirbharata’ (self-reliance), reducing reliance on specialized imports.

The Tejas aircraft, poised to become the cornerstone of the IAF, has already assimilated nearly 40 Tejas of initial variants. In February 2021, the defense ministry finalized a Rs 48,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd for the acquisition of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the IAF. In November, the ministry granted preliminary approval for procuring an additional batch of 97 Tejas jets for the IAF.