DRDO Hands Over Indigenous Leading Edge Actuators & Airbrake Control Module for LCA Tejas Mk1A

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 20th April. In a landmark development, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has delivered the inaugural batch of indigenous Leading Edge Actuators and Airbrake Control Modules to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This milestone marks a significant stride towards achieving self-reliance in aeronautical technologies.

The transfer of these cutting-edge components signifies a momentous leap forward in bolstering India’s indigenous capabilities in aerospace technology. HAL’s facility in Lucknow has made necessary arrangements for the production of these units to fulfill the current order of 83 LCA Tejas Mk1A aircraft.

The Secondary Flight Control system of the LCA Tejas, encompassing Leading Edge Slats and Airbrakes, now features state-of-the-art Servo-Valve-based electro-hydraulic servo actuators and control modules. These advanced components, distinguished by their high pressure, redundant servo actuators, and control modules, reflect ADA’s unwavering commitment to indigenous technological excellence.

ADA has collaborated closely with Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad and the Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) in Bengaluru to attain self-reliance in these critical technologies. The successful completion of flight trials for Leading Edge Actuators and Airbrake Control Modules has paved the way for production clearance, enabling HAL to proceed with the equipping of the Mk-1A variant of LCA Tejas.

Manufacturing of these vital components is currently underway at HAL’s Accessories Division in Lucknow, underscoring a significant enhancement of India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The concerted efforts of both public and private industries, including Godrej Aerospace in Mumbai, in conjunction with certification agencies such as CEMILAC and DGAQA, have been pivotal in achieving this milestone.

The Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO, along with the Director-General of ADA, extended their congratulations to the entire team involved in this collaborative effort. This achievement underscores India’s growing prowess in indigenous aerospace technology and signifies a significant step forward in the nation’s journey towards self-reliance in defence production.