India is taking a big step forward in strengthening the power of its Navy in the air. The country’s ambitious TEDBF project—originally designed as a 4.5 generation fighter—is now being developed into a complete 5th generation stealth fighter jet. This development can change the future of India’s naval air operations and give it an edge in the Indian Ocean Region.
The TEDBF (Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter) is being developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This fighter is expected to replace the Indian Navy’s ageing fleet of MiG-29K jets, which currently operate from aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
What is TEDBF and Why It Matters for India’s Navy
The TEDBF project is India’s effort to build a powerful, multi-role fighter jet that can operate from aircraft carriers. It is being designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the same body that is working on the IAF’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Originally, TEDBF was to be a 4.5-generation aircraft, combining modern avionics and good performance with some level of radar cross-section reduction. But with growing threats in the Indian Ocean and the rise of stealth fighters in China and the US, India is now planning to make TEDBF a complete 5th generation aircraft.
This means adding full stealth design, internal weapon bays, and advanced radar-evading capabilities. If successful, it will be India’s first fully indigenous 5th generation stealth fighter for naval use.
How TEDBF is Turning into a 5th Generation Fighter Jet
To qualify as a 5th generation fighter, an aircraft must meet several requirements:
- Stealth technology (low radar visibility)
- Internal weapon bays (for reduced radar signature)
- Supercruise capability (flying at supersonic speeds without afterburners)
- Advanced avionics and sensor fusion
- Multirole combat ability
Sources say the TEDBF’s new design will now include all of these features. A redesigned air intake system, a reshaped fuselage, and a completely internal weapons carriage system are being planned to ensure maximum stealth.
The final design is expected to undergo Critical Design Review (CDR) in early 2025. That review will confirm whether the jet meets all 5th generation standards before moving to the prototype stage.
Timeline and Development Plan of TEDBF
According to DRDO insiders, the TEDBF project is moving on schedule. Here is the estimated development timeline:
- 2025: Critical Design Review (CDR)
- 2026: Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval
- 2030: First prototype rollout
- 2032: First flight expected
- 2036: Likely induction into the Indian Navy
This timeline is ambitious but achievable if funding and technical resources remain consistent. DRDO believes the TEDBF could play a frontline role in India’s naval power within the next decade.
Why TEDBF is Important in the Global Naval Race
Many global naval powers are already deploying 5th generation stealth jets. The US has the F-35C operating from aircraft carriers. China has developed the J-35 stealth jet for its own carriers.
To stay competitive in the Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific region, India needs similar capabilities. Indigenous development also ensures strategic autonomy and avoids heavy dependence on foreign vendors.
Once deployed, TEDBF will not just serve India’s needs but could also be exported to friendly nations seeking affordable 5th generation naval fighters.
TEDBF to Be Powered by US GE F414 Engine Initially
In the early stages, TEDBF will be powered by the GE F414 engine, a reliable American engine already being used in India’s LCA Tejas Mk2. This engine can provide a thrust of 98–110 kN, suitable for carrier operations and high-speed missions.
However, India plans to develop its engine in the long run. As part of the co-development agreement with GE, an indigenous engine may be built that could power both TEDBF and AMCA in the future.
TEDBF’s Multi-role Capabilities and Firepower
TEDBF is not just about stealth. It is designed to perform a wide variety of missions:
- Air-to-air combat
- Ground attack missions
- Anti-ship strikes
- Maritime patrol
Its expected combat radius is around 1,000 km, with a top speed of Mach 1.6. These figures are promising for operations in deep-sea and hostile environments.
TEDBF will carry both indigenous and imported weapons. Internal weapon bays will allow it to carry weapons like:
- Astra Mk3 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles
- Rudram anti-radiation missiles
- Smart bombs and guided munitions
The use of internal weapon bays will ensure that the stealth profile of the jet is not compromised during missions.
India’s Strategic Need for a Stealth Naval Fighter
The Indian Navy operates in a region that is becoming highly competitive. With China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, India needs cutting-edge technology to stay ahead.
Aircraft carriers are key to power projection. But to be truly effective, they need stealth fighters that can penetrate enemy airspace undetected.
Having TEDBF on carriers like INS Vikrant will allow India to:
- Project air power across maritime zones
- Maintain security in the Indian Ocean
- Act as a deterrent to regional threats
- Counterbalance Chinese and American presence
TEDBF vs MiG-29K: A Big Upgrade
The current MiG-29K fighters have served the Navy well but come with limitations:
- Higher maintenance
- Poor serviceability
- No stealth features
TEDBF will address all of these issues:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Lower radar visibility
- Advanced avionics
- Greater range and flexibility
This upgrade is a performance boost and a strategic step towards self-reliance.
Final Outlook on TEDBF’s Stealth Transformation
The transformation of TEDBF into a 5th generation stealth fighter is a bold and timely decision. It will push India into an elite group of nations that can build advanced naval aircraft indigenously. With a strong focus on stealth, performance, and multi-role operations, TEDBF could become a game-changer in India’s defence strategy and a symbol of the country’s aerospace ambitions.
