Indian Navy confirms to procure 45 STOBAR variant of TEDBF : Development of CATOBAR variant also in the pipeline

Source : Indian Defence Updates (IDU)

Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) Scale Model

The Indian Navy has confirmed plans to procure 45 STOBAR (Short Take Off But Arrested Recovery) variant of TEDBF carrier borne fighter aircraft for its two aircraft carriers from 2031 onwards and might procure 45 more CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) variant of TEDBF in the future for the third aircraft carrier.

The Project Director of the TEDBF has confirmed that wireless CATOBAR variant of the TEDBF is under development for the INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.

A CATOBAR variant of the TEDBF will also be developed when the Indian Navy finalizes the configuration of the third aircraft carrier.

The CATOBAR system will allow fighter jets to carry a greater payload for Ordnance and Fuel and also operate carrier-capable tactical Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft (AEW&CA).