MIDHANI Delivers Indigenous Titanium & Superalloys for Tejas Mk2 Jet's Airframe and Structural Parts Manufacturing

Mishra Dhatu Nigam (MIDHANI), a Hyderabad-based Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has achieved a major milestone in India's aerospace industry. The organization has successfully delivered its first batch of indigenously developed titanium and superalloys to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). These advanced materials will play a crucial role in manufacturing the airframe and structural parts of the Tejas Mk2 fighter jet, a significant upgrade of India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

Advanced Materials for High-Performance Aircraft

The titanium alloys and superalloy components delivered by MIDHANI were developed in collaboration with the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA). These agencies ensured that the materials adhered to stringent aerospace standards, making them fit for the demands of high-speed, supersonic combat aircraft.

Titanium’s Role: Titanium alloys are renowned for their high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand extreme conditions. For the Tejas Mk2, these properties will ensure a lightweight yet robust airframe capable of handling the rigors of aerial combat and high-speed maneuvers.

Superalloys' Contribution: Superalloys, often used in high-stress and high-temperature environments, bring exceptional durability and thermal resistance. Their incorporation into the jet's structural design will enhance the aircraft’s operational reliability and longevity under demanding flight conditions.

Tejas Mk2: India’s Next-Gen Fighter Jet

The Tejas Mk2 is a pivotal advancement in India’s defence aviation. Compared to the LCA Mk1, the Mk2 variant boasts enhanced avionics, a greater payload capacity, and a longer operational range. Powered by the GE F414 engine, the Tejas Mk2 will bridge the gap between the light combat aircraft category and medium-weight fighter jets. It is designed to carry a heavier payload of up to 6.5 tonnes and features additional hardpoints for armament, making it a versatile asset for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The titanium-based airframe components supplied by MIDHANI will ensure the Mk2 remains agile while maintaining structural integrity. This capability is critical for high-speed maneuvers and advanced combat scenarios.

Indigenous Manufacturing Milestone

The delivery marks a significant step in India's journey toward self-reliance in defence technology. MIDHANI has been a long-standing contributor to India’s defence and aerospace sectors, with expertise in advanced materials for critical projects like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and other indigenous platforms.

The Tejas Mk2 project exemplifies the synergy between defence PSUs and certification bodies like CEMILAC and DGAQA. Such collaboration ensures that materials and components meet the highest quality standards, supporting the timely progression of critical projects.

Future Outlook

The prototype of the Tejas Mk2 is slated for rollout by late 2025, with flight testing expected soon after. As HAL advances in manufacturing the aircraft, MIDHANI's role in supplying high-performance materials will remain vital. The success of this collaboration underscores the importance of indigenization in achieving strategic autonomy for India’s defence forces.

The Tejas Mk2 not only represents a leap forward for India’s military aviation capabilities but also reinforces the nation’s commitment to building a robust, self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem.