ALL EYES ON LCA TEJAS MK.2
With the LCA Navy Mk.2, things are slightly more complicated. The second and third prototypes NP3 and NP4 will be Mk.2 variants of the LCA Navy, while NP5, a second trainer is under build as a risk mitigation exercise. As is well known, the main contributors to improvement in LCA Navy Mk.2 are higher thrust engine (the F414), increased wingspan, lighter landing gear and structure, and improved systems layout towards better safety and maintainability. A design consultancy with Airbus Defence & Space (formerley EADS/Cassidian) has been initialised following its assistance in the LCA Navy Mk.1. In the ineterim, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies on several configurations of LCA Navy Mk.2 have been carried out. Performance estimation with new GE-414-INS6 engine has also been carried out. The next phase will involve wind tunnel testing. Design iterations of LCA Navy Mk.2 surface geometry has also been undertaken based on suggestions made by design consultant Airbus D&S and have been evaluated with CFD studies. Meanwhile, based on the design suggestions, design teams involving aerodynamics, structures and various groups are working on the concept design of LCA Navy Mk2, says the the Aeronautical Development Agency.
An improved landing gear design, supplied by Airbus Defence & Space is currently under review for implementation on the Mk.2. This would reduce landing gear mass considerably, admits ADA. All issues related to landing gear observed during initial block of flight testing on the NP1 have been rectified. Part fabrication of the arrester hook assembly and the actuator-cum-damper assembly have been progress at ADA. The arrester hook assembly has been integrated on the NP2. A modified arrester hook system conform to the fuselage is being studied for implementation on LCA Navy Mk2.
The LCA Mk.2, both air force and navy variants, are intended for far improved performance across the flight envelope, including higher turn rates, acceleration and climb, a much smaller logistics and maintenance footprint, longer endurance with a larger fuel carrying capacity, a vastly improved electronic warfare suite and a full weapons capability, including beyond visual range air-to-air missiles, stand-off strike weapons and anti-ship missiles. The G limits on the Mk.2 will be up from +8/-3.5 to +9/-3.5. The platform will also sport an onboard oxygen generation system and will be 45 per cent composites by weight.