In a major boost to indigenization, HAL signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for development and supply of 20 types systems for the LCA Tejas Mk1A program here today.  The five-year contract spanning from 2023 to 2028 is valued at Rs 2400 crores.

It involves supplying critical avionics Line Replaceable Units (LRUs),related to Digital Flight Control Computers, Air Data Computers, Weapon Computers, LRUs related to Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) and Head Up Display. The LRUs have been indigenously designed and developed by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), DRDO Labs, Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Combat Aircraft Systems Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC) and Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO).

“LCA Tejas programme is an excellent example of synergies between Indian Defence establishments such as HAL, DRDO & BEL. The current order for development and supply of 20 types of critical avionics LRUs for Tejas Mk1A is a shot-in-the-arm for Make in India activity. HAL stands committed to indigenous products”, said Mr R Madhavan, CMD, HAL.  

“We are pleased to receive this order from HAL for the prestigious LCA Tejas Fighter aircraft programme. It will give a big boost to the Government of India’s indigenisation drive. BEL is all geared up to supply the critical Avionics LRUs as per the delivery schedule. We look forward to continue our strong partnership with HAL for more such programmes,” said Ms Anandi Ramalingam, CMD, BEL.

The order for supply of these systems for 83 Tejas Mk1A fighter fleet will be executed by two Divisions of Bharat Electronics Limited at Bengaluru and Panchkula (Haryana). All the contracted items will be delivered by BEL to HAL in a ready to board condition.

Deliveries under 83 Tejas Mk1A order to IAF will commence from FY 2023-24 onwards. The home-grown fighter is slated to be equipped with indigenous flight control computers, air data computers which would also be supplied by BEL under this contract. These systems have been designed and developed by various labs of DRDO and Aeronautical Development Agency, Bengaluru.

The contract documents were handed over by Mr E P Jayadeva, General Manager LCA Tejas Division, HAL to Mr Manoj Jain, General Manager (EW&A) BEL.