On September 1, 2022, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the Tejas Mk2 project for an indigenous light combat aircraft. For the design and construction of Tejas Mk2 fighter jet prototypes, test flights, and certification, the CCS has given the go-ahead for Rs 6,500 crore.

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The Tejas Mk2, which belongs to the middleweight group, is a 4.5-generation fighter aircraft. Its indigenization rate will be 70%, more than the Mark IA’s 62 percent, and it will be equipped with more advanced Indian-made technologies. State-owned Hindustan Aeronautics is the manufacturer of this single-engine, multipurpose, supersonic combat aircraft.

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Beginning in February 2021, the Tejas Mark 2’s metal cutting process. The original “roll out” date for the first prototype was set for August 2022, however it has since been postponed until the end of 2022. In late 2023, the first launch is anticipated, four prototypes are initially planned.

A number of new features will be added to the Tejas LCA’s advanced design to enhance its combat and flight capabilities. Tejas 2.0 will contain GE-414 engines that are more powerful than the present model, with 98Kn of thrust. In comparison to the present version, this will allows it to fly further , carry more weaponry and cargo.

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Alongside the wings of the aircraft, a canard has been added. The Rafale, Eurofighter, and Sukhoi-30MKI are examples of contemporary fighters that have canards like these. Inboard and outboard elevons are present on the trailing edge of the wing. The Tejas Mk2 will include a new cockpit that is more anatomically designed and easier to maintain in addition to new armaments and an upgraded engine. Alloys of aluminum, titanium, steel, and carbon composites are used in the construction of fly-by-wire aircraft.

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Description of Tejas Mk-2

Tejas Mark 2 or MWF development was started to fix all Tejas Mark 1 and Mark 1A flaws as well as to fulfill the initial air personnel needs to be outlined for the LCA program by the IAF. To make the task of the pilot easier, the Mk2 will have a hand-on throttle-and-stick combination with the right hand on the stick and the left hand on the throttle.

The LCA Mk2 is anticipated to be ready by 2024, and testing should be completed by 2027, according to  IAF officials. In 2030, full-scale mass production will begin after the development phase is complete 2027. From 2028 on, Tejas Mk2 will be usable. HAL anticipates ordering 210 more aircraft in addition to the six squadrons.

A total development budget of Rs 9000 crore, including the Rs 2500 crore that has already been spent, has been approved by the CCS. The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has established a target date of 2027 to complete the flight testing.

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