Tejas MK-2 To Get Meteor Missile And Uttam Radar, Enabling 200 km Strikes At 5,000 kmph

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3 days ago

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The Meteor missile, a top BVR weapon, features a throttleable ramjet engine, active radar seeker, and two-way data link for superior range and target tracking
The Indian Air Force is set to significantly enhance its air-to-air attack capabilities with the integration of the state-of-the-art Meteor missile (Meteor Beyond-Visual-Range Air-to-Air Missile – BVRAAM) into the indigenous fighter aircraft Tejas MK-2.
This development will make Tejas MK-2, a 4.5 generation fighter aircraft, even more powerful, positioning it as a competitor to the Rafale. The aircraft, developed by DRDO, will also be equipped with modern radar systems and ultra-modern weapons, including the BrahMos cruise supersonic missile, boosting its strike capability.
The Meteor missile, recognised as one of the world's deadliest BVR weapons, features advanced technologies such as a throttleable ramjet propulsion system, an active radar seeker, and a two-way data link. Unlike missiles with a solid rocket motor, the Meteor's ramjet engine provides continuous thrust during flight, adjustable as needed.
This allows the missile to maintain speeds exceeding Mach 4 (5000 kilometres per hour) until the terminal phase, conserving fuel in mid-course and increasing thrust near the target for sharp manoeuvres, reducing the chances of the enemy escaping.
No Escape For The Enemy
The two-way data link enables mid-course updates and re-targeting by utilising real-time data from TEJAS MK-2's Uttam AESA radar or other networked sensors. This feature ensures accuracy and lethality even amid heavy electronic jamming, allowing TEJAS MK-2 to engage targets based on its radar and third-party platforms, providing comprehensive network-centric warfare capabilities.
Uttam AESA Radar: The Perfect Partner For Meteor
The Uttam AESA radar, a vital component of TEJAS MK-2, utilises Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, enabling detection of fighter-sized targets at distances of 200 km or more. It is more power-efficient and resistant to electronic jamming compared to older radars. The radar's sensor fusion capability, combined with Meteor, allows TEJAS MK-2 to detect, lock, and eliminate enemies at long distances.
On Par With Leading Fighter Jets
Meteor is currently part of cutting-edge fighter jets like Rafale, Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, and F-35. Its integration into TEJAS MK-2 will provide India with similar, if not superior, BVR capabilities. With Meteor, TEJAS MK-2 will be able to strike from long distances while staying out of danger, instilling confidence in pilots to shoot first and kill first, significantly enhancing their survival chances in high-threat environments. This combination of the Meteor missile and Uttam AESA radar will provide the Indian Air Force with a decisive edge in modern air warfare.
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