Milestone Achieved: Tejas Mk1A Prototype Successfully Flies with Indigenous Digital Flight Control Computer

February: In a crucial stride forward for the Tejas Mk1A programme, the prototype LSP7 witnessed the successful integration and flight of the Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) on February 19, 2024. Developed indigenously by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, the DFCC represents a significant technological advancement for the Tejas Mk1A.

The Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer incorporates a Quadraplex Power PC-based Processor, a high-speed autonomous state machine-based I/O controller, enhanced computational throughput, and complex on-board software complying with DO178C level-A safety requirements. During the maiden flight, all critical parameters and performance of the flight controls were found to be satisfactory. The flight was piloted by Wing Commander Siddarth Singh KMJ (Retd) of the National Flight Test Centre.

The Aeronautical Development Agency, operating under the Department of Defence R&D and Ministry of Defence, has achieved the type certification of Tejas-Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). The Indian Air Force has already operationalized the Tejas LCA Mk1, and the Tejas MK1A, an enhanced version of the aircraft, features advanced components such as an upgraded mission computer, high-performance Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC Mk1A), Smart Multi-Function Displays (SMFD), Advanced Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Advanced Self-protection Jammer, Electronic Warfare Suit, and more.

Congratulating the joint teams from DRDO, IAF, ADA, and industries involved in the development and successful flight test, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh hailed this achievement as a significant step towards Atmanirbharata, emphasizing a reduced reliance on special imports. The successful flight test has garnered praise from Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO, who commended the teams for boosting confidence in the timely delivery of Tejas MK1A to the Indian Air Force. This accomplishment reflects India’s growing capabilities in indigenous defence technology and aviation advancements.