India’s naval aviation capabilities have advanced significantly with the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) program, which is presently being reviewed by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). This aircraft is meant to replace the outdated Mikoyan MiG-29K fleet that is presently stationed on the INS Vikramaditya and the recently commissioned INS Vikrant. It is designed to satisfy the Indian Navy’s needs for a contemporary carrier-based multirole combat fighter.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is producing the TEDBF, which is being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). Its canard delta wing design and designation as a “5th generation minus” fighter demonstrate its advanced capabilities, even though it does not quite satisfy all fifth-generation aircraft requirements. The TEDBF is anticipated to carry out a number of tasks, such as electronic warfare, air superiority, and anti-ship warfare.
According to a recent update, the Indian Navy’s estimated TEDBF demand is now 87 aircraft. This change was made as part of a larger evaluation of the Navy’s requirements, which at first looked at a three-carrier strategy-based demand for 145 TEDBFs. However, the Navy should instead base its requirements on a two-carrier model, according to current defense policy debates.
With the identification of 14 critical improvements required for the aircraft’s capabilities, the Indian Navy is moving forward with the TEDBF. These improvements include autonomous takeoff and landing capabilities, which are absent from the present TEJAS Navy version. Interestingly, there is a path for integration into the TEDBF program because four of these technologies have previously been tested and approved on the TEJAS Navy.
In close collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the Navy aimed to launch the TEDBF for the first time by 2028.
Short Take-Off Barrier Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) aircraft carriers in India will be able to take off more quickly thanks to the TEDBF’s dual General Electric F414 engines.
Modifications to lower its radar cross-section and the addition of semi-recessed missile bays are recent additions that improve combat capability without sacrificing stealth.
Production of the TEDBF is expected to start by 2031, with the first flight expected to occur around 2026. Timelines for crucial stages of development have been delayed, nonetheless, due to recent delays in design evaluations.
The TEDBF program has been approved by multiple ministries as of December 2024, and the NSCS is currently conducting a thorough review of it. About ₹14,000 crores are needed for the program to develop four prototypes. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) will be consulted for financing approval after the Critical Design Review (CDR), which is anticipated to be completed successfully in early 2025.
Improving India’s maritime security posture in the Indian Ocean Region depends on the TEDBF. Its cutting-edge characteristics and emphasis on domestic development fit nicely with India’s larger defense strategy, which aims to increase military independence. The Indian Navy’s commitment to strengthening carrier-based air power is demonstrated by its plans to purchase up to 90 TEDBF units in two batches.
The TEDBF program is a crucial component of India’s navy modernization initiatives, despite the difficulties that come with complicated defense projects, such as financial limitations and schedule modifications. In addition to replacing outdated aircraft, the effective deployment of the TEDBF will improve the Indian Navy’s operational adaptability and combat readiness.
