Tejas LCA to be powered by indigenous Kaveri engine

Bangalore: The prestigious Kaveri gas turbine engine development programme, intended to develop a state-of-the-art fighter jet engine for the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft programme, may finally achieve its goals with one of the engines dispatched to Russia for high-altitude tests. Scientists at the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) have expressed confidence that this time round the Kaveri is likely to meet all expectations.

Earlier tests had failed.

Speaking to reporters at the 23rd convention of aerospace engineers here, GTRE director, T Mohana Rao, said the establishment had overcome all obstacles and one of the engines, had been taken to Russia for high altitude testing. Once it cleared the test, another engine would be shipped subsequently for the flying test, he said.

"Once that's in good shape and a good success, we will be using one more engine for flying test bed trials", Rao said.

On current expectations, the engine should be ready by March or April next year and be in a position for integration in one year's time.

''We are also looking to develop a marine version of the Kaveri engine and the Indian Navy would be our working partners. This includes financial participation,'' he said.