IAF’s LCA Tejas outshines Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder in regional comparison

In a regional comparison, experts have hailed India's indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas as a superior aircraft when juxtaposed with Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder. Notably, Tejas outshines its regional peer, primarily due to its advanced capabilities and reliability. LCA Tejas has once again garnered attention for its prowess, particularly when compared to the JF-17 Thunder, a mainstay in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Speaking with Republic, Wing Commander (Retd) Praful Bakshi recently lauded LCA Tejas for its superior performance and reliability.  

The recent news of the Indian Air Force (IAF) placing an order for an additional 90 LCA MK1A aircraft underscores India's commitment to 'Atamnirbharta' or self-reliance. This move is in alignment with the Indian government's emphasis on reducing dependency on foreign defence imports. The order for these 90 aircraft is in addition to the 83 LCA Mk1A aircraft already placed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 2021. Once both orders are fulfilled over the next 15 years, the IAF will significantly bolster its fleet with 40 LCA, over 180 LCA MK 1A, and at least 120 LCA MK-2 fighter jets. 

Tejas vs JF-17: A regional showdown

While both LCA Tejas and JF-17 Thunder are single-engine multi-role combat aircraft, the differences between them are substantial, setting Tejas apart as the superior choice. Notably, LCA Tejas stands out for its advanced capabilities, manoeuvrability, agility, and reliability when compared to the JF-17.

The JF-17, which initially employed a Russian RD-93 engine, faced suitability issues even within the Chinese Air Force (PLAAF). Subsequently, China offered the unproven WS-13 engine for JF-17, a move rejected by Pakistan for their Block-3 JF-17 fighter jets. Unlike the well-regarded GE-404 engine that powers numerous military aircraft worldwide, the WS-13 engine has been plagued by reliability concerns, making the JF-17 hazardous for pilot safety and mission success.

JF-17 Thunder's Troubled History

The JF-17 Thunder, a collaborative effort between the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China's Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corp, has faced a history of crashes and technical issues since its induction in the PAF in 2007. Problems such as cracks in guide vanes, exhaust nozzles, and flame stabilizers have led to several groundings.

Tejas also surpasses the JF-17 in terms of serviceability. In the IAF squadron, the LCA maintains a serviceability rate of over 75 per cent. In contrast, at least 40 JF-17 aircraft out of 100 delivered are known to be unserviceable. Furthermore, the JF-17 has a record of accidents in Pakistan, while Tejas maintains a pristine safety record.  

Fly-by-wire system and technical issues

Tejas boasts a quadruplex redundant architecture in its fly-by-wire system, while the JF-17 relies on a triplex redundant system. Additionally, the JF-17 faced grounding issues in Myanmar due to 'vibration issues' related to its airframe, especially in wingtips and hardpoints. Tejas' avionics outshine those of the JF-17, particularly the China-made KLJ-7 Al radar, known for poor accuracy and maintenance problems. Tejas features an indigenous software package, including flight control laws, mission computer algorithms, and weapon release solutions, ensuring its adaptability and reliability.  

Another area where Tejas excels is in Turn Round Servicing (TRS), taking less than 30 minutes. TRS represents the time needed for the aircraft to become airborne again after landing and undergoing servicing. Tejas' use of hydraulics for all its services contributes to this efficiency. Conversely, the JF-17 relies on a pneumatic system powered by compressed gas, requiring regular charging and prolonging TRS time. Meanwhile, LCA Tejas continues to demonstrate its excellence, bolstering India's defence capabilities while highlighting the challenges faced by its regional counterpart, the JF-17 Thunder.