Aerospace

Indian Tejas Mark 1 vs the Korean FA 50. which is most appropriate for RMAF malaysia

The Malaysian government is currently evaluating the final bids from both nations so that it may make the best decisions.

Now that the two nations have agreed upon the Malaysian Air Force aircraft tenders, The Malaysian government is currently evaluating the final bids from both nations so that it may make the best decisions.
We will discuss each of the offerings from both countries in the article.

About KAI – FA 50

A family of South Korean supersonic advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft known as the KAI T50 Golden Eagle was developed by the Korean aerospace industry in collaboration with the United States Lockheed Martin Company.

Why did Tejas not win the RMAF tender? Here are four potential reasons.(Opens in a new browser tab)

Its first flight took in 2002, and it joined the Republic of Korea’s air force in 2005. T-50B, TA-50, and FA-50 are the aerobatic and combat versions of the T-50 that have been further developed.

Since 2001, it has produced 200 aircraft, which are now being used by the air forces of three different nations: Iraq, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Additionally, Thailand had placed an order for 12 aircraft, Colombia for 20, and Poland for 48.

This aircraft will reportedly be compared to the F16 aircraft, and pilots who have trained on it will have no difficulty flying the FA 50 aircraft.

These are two new challenges Malaysia faces in purchasing FA50.(Opens in a new browser tab)

About HAL – Tejas Mark1

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) created the HAL Tejas, a single-engine, delta-wing, light multirole fighter for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy.

Tejas is currently a member of the India Air Force’s No. 45 Squadron, which will by 2025 replace its entire inventory of outdated Mig 21 aircraft.

Indian HAL has extensive experience producing aeroplanes and has produced numerous aircraft systems in partnership with numerous nations. HAL currently develops helicopters, fighter jets, trainer planes, and commercial planes in addition to maintaining larger defence planes like the Russian Sukhoi and other planes in its platform.

Now that the Philippines has become a customer for its helicopters and weaponry, India’s HAL is hunting for a foreign buyer for its aircraft.

Does Malaysia choose the Tejas fighter jet from India?(Opens in a new browser tab)

Additionally being promoted to Mark 2 status, this aircraft will have some extremely cutting-edge characteristics, making it a 4.5-generation fighter jet.

What is HAL providing to RMAF under the deal?

It will offer MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), and Aviation Management Courses, and promote regional manufacturing. Additionally, it will provide maintenance and upgrades for the Russian Su-30MKM and Hawk aircraft owned by Malaysia.

The Indian BVR missiles, which are similar to the all-weather Astra missiles, are favouring HAL in the Malaysian selection. Additionally, the Royal Malaysian Air Force may receive BrahMos missiles as a result of the Tejas agreement (RMAF).

HAL has also offered to support the RMAF in upgrading its Hawk fleet. Other HAL platforms like HTT-40 basic trainer, Dornier-228 light maritime reconnaissance aircraft, Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) have the potential to be inducted by RMAF in the future says HAL. and further, it will upgrade the aircraft for AMCA and Tejas mark2

What South Korea proposes to the RMAF in the FA 50 contract.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) also proposed to build a final assembly facility for its FA-50 Block 20 light fighter at Kuantan as part of its bid to win the Fighter Lead-In Trainer/Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT/LCA) programme from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia/TUDM).

The construction of the facility will cost between MYR440 million and MYR560 million (about USD100.3 million and USD127.7 million at the current exchange rate). A maximum combined output of two aircraft per three to six months will be produced by either one or two final assembly line(s), depending on Malaysia’s choice and the results of KAI’s on-site study.

The fighters that Malaysia’s RMAF is looking for.

The programme mandates the purchase of supersonic light fighter aircraft with aerial refuelling, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat capability, and at least 30% Malaysian-made componentry. Additionally, it mandates that the manufacturer begin deliveries within 36 months of contract signing.

Tejas boasts a higher service ceiling, maximum takeoff weight, and top speed despite both having roughly equivalent ranges. Another positive aspect of integration is that Malaysia uses a combination of NATO and Russian-made equipment, similar to India.

RMAF, is expecting to pay in the region of $900 million for 18 fighters, or $50 million per fighter.

Which fighter plane do you think will be best for Malaysia’s defence? Let us know in the comments below.

Aerospace

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Comparison of two legendary aircraft B777x vs B747 aircraft:Click here

Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

NASA, Lockheed Martin Reveal X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft:Click here

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.