The Tejas Mk2 simulator has provided the first detailed look at India’s upcoming 4.5-generation fighter jet, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). As per an IndiaTV interview, Wing Commander Siddharth, a former Tejas Mk1 pilot now working with ADA, gave a walkthrough of the aircraft’s advanced cockpit. The first prototype is expected to roll out by May 2026.
Advanced cockpit tailored for new-generation pilots
As per the interview, the Tejas Mk2 cockpit has been designed with automation and ease of use in mind. Unlike its predecessor, it reduces the number of switches and uses a Large Area Display (LAD) with a touch-enabled interface for tactical and flight data.
According to Wing Commander Siddharth, “This cockpit has been designed keeping in mind the new generation of pilots, new generation of weapons, and new generation of systems.”
The system features HOTAS (Hands-On Throttle and Stick), which integrates essential controls such as communications, weapon release, and electronic warfare into the throttle and stick.
Sensor fusion enables better situational awareness
The fighter incorporates sensor fusion technology, combining inputs from multiple sensors to give the pilot a unified tactical picture. The system identifies threats, classifies friendly and enemy aircraft, and suggests actions such as engaging or evading. Formation members can also assign tasks within the system, improving coordination in combat.
Missile targeting and engagement made simpler
Target acquisition is supported by a Target Designate Button and a cursor control system. Pilots can lock onto targets through the switch or cursor and then fire using the trigger.
“This allows the pilot to engage targets quickly without moving hands away from critical controls,” Siddharth explained.
Electronic warfare system provides defensive edge
The Tejas Mk2 includes a Radar Warning Receiver and Missile Approach Warning System to detect tracking and incoming threats. These early warnings support timely defensive maneuvers.
Enhanced weapon payload and fuel capacity
The aircraft has 11 hardpoints and can carry up to 10 Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles. It is also compatible with precision weapons such as SCALP, SPICE, and HAMMER. For mixed missions, it can carry both air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
Fuel storage has been improved to 3,300 kg internally and up to 6,000 kg with external tanks. This enables longer missions, including patrols of up to 3.5 hours. With mid-air refueling, it can extend operations to 10 hours.
Environmental controls ensure operational readiness
The cockpit is equipped with climate control, maintaining a set temperature of 25–26°C even in conditions as low as -56°C. A canopy demist function helps manage fog or moisture.
The integrated autopilot manages four dimensions—position, altitude, time, and speed—allowing pilots to rely on automation for route execution while focusing on tactical tasks.
Simulation ensures refinement before production
The simulator helps ADA test and refine cockpit layouts before actual production. Feedback from pilots is incorporated into the design to ensure efficiency.
“This simulation is crucial before building the aircraft,” Siddharth noted. “It ensures the pilot gets a refined and combat-ready cockpit without last-minute changes.”
The Tejas Mk2 cockpit uses a side-stick design and touch-enabled systems for better visibility and control. It includes:
Slew control for target designation
Dogfight switch for instant combat mode
Helmet Mounted Display and Sight System (HMDS)
Large Head-Up Display (HUD) for real-time data
Advanced cockpit tailored for new-generation pilots
As per the interview, the Tejas Mk2 cockpit has been designed with automation and ease of use in mind. Unlike its predecessor, it reduces the number of switches and uses a Large Area Display (LAD) with a touch-enabled interface for tactical and flight data.
According to Wing Commander Siddharth, “This cockpit has been designed keeping in mind the new generation of pilots, new generation of weapons, and new generation of systems.”
The system features HOTAS (Hands-On Throttle and Stick), which integrates essential controls such as communications, weapon release, and electronic warfare into the throttle and stick.
Sensor fusion enables better situational awareness
The fighter incorporates sensor fusion technology, combining inputs from multiple sensors to give the pilot a unified tactical picture. The system identifies threats, classifies friendly and enemy aircraft, and suggests actions such as engaging or evading. Formation members can also assign tasks within the system, improving coordination in combat.
Missile targeting and engagement made simpler
Target acquisition is supported by a Target Designate Button and a cursor control system. Pilots can lock onto targets through the switch or cursor and then fire using the trigger.
“This allows the pilot to engage targets quickly without moving hands away from critical controls,” Siddharth explained.
Electronic warfare system provides defensive edge
The Tejas Mk2 includes a Radar Warning Receiver and Missile Approach Warning System to detect tracking and incoming threats. These early warnings support timely defensive maneuvers.
Enhanced weapon payload and fuel capacity
The aircraft has 11 hardpoints and can carry up to 10 Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles. It is also compatible with precision weapons such as SCALP, SPICE, and HAMMER. For mixed missions, it can carry both air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
Fuel storage has been improved to 3,300 kg internally and up to 6,000 kg with external tanks. This enables longer missions, including patrols of up to 3.5 hours. With mid-air refueling, it can extend operations to 10 hours.
Environmental controls ensure operational readiness
The cockpit is equipped with climate control, maintaining a set temperature of 25–26°C even in conditions as low as -56°C. A canopy demist function helps manage fog or moisture.
The integrated autopilot manages four dimensions—position, altitude, time, and speed—allowing pilots to rely on automation for route execution while focusing on tactical tasks.
Simulation ensures refinement before production
The simulator helps ADA test and refine cockpit layouts before actual production. Feedback from pilots is incorporated into the design to ensure efficiency.
“This simulation is crucial before building the aircraft,” Siddharth noted. “It ensures the pilot gets a refined and combat-ready cockpit without last-minute changes.”
The Tejas Mk2 cockpit uses a side-stick design and touch-enabled systems for better visibility and control. It includes:
Slew control for target designation
Dogfight switch for instant combat mode
Helmet Mounted Display and Sight System (HMDS)
Large Head-Up Display (HUD) for real-time data
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