India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed high-altitude trials of an on-board oxygen generation system designed for combat aircraft.
The system is designed to be used specifically on Tejas, the country’s self-developed multi-role fighter jet.
DEBEL, a lab in Bengaluru, assessed the system’s performance at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet. The technology is designed to generate and regulate breathable oxygen in flight and therefore eliminate dependence on liquid oxygen cylinders.
Trials were conducted on a prototype developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the country’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). The system met aeromedical standards across various flight conditions, including high-G manoeuvres. Testing covered oxygen concentration, demand breathing, emergency oxygen availability, and components such as the anti-G valve and the breathing oxygen system.
Developed in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), the tech includes a low-pressure breathing regulator, emergency oxygen system, and oxygen sensor. With 90% domestically-produced content, it aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in aerospace technology and can be adapted for other fighter aircraft.
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the project reflected India’s commitment to aerospace development. The country’s fighter jet programmes include the Tejas Mk1A, Tejas MkII, AMCA, HLFT-42, and TEDBF.
