BY : TNN

Faulty ejection systems are one of the major reasons for loss of highly trained fighter pilots during contingencies. Last year itself, the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost seven pilots in crashes.

In an attempt to find a solution to the problem, Pune-based Armaments Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) has developed a pilot ejection system for use in the light combat aircraft (LCA), world's smallest, light-weight, multi-role combat aircraft which will be inducted into the IAF soon. The ejection mechanism relies on a canopy severing system and a power cartridge system for smooth ejection of the pilot, both on air and on ground.

Speaking to TOI, ARDE director Surendra Kumar said, "The severing system weakens and cuts the canopy. The rocket cartridge fitted to the pilot's seat is fired to ease the lever allowing the pilot to fly out vertically while the canopy is flung open."

"The system can also be operated externally by ground-based crew. This has potential to help save precious life if the pilot becomes unconscious," said Kumar.

The system will also bring down the expenditure by half, since all the systems currently in use are imported from Russia and the US.

According to Kumar, more than a year of testing and field trials were carried out before the system was declared fool-proof. It took ARDE three years to prepare the design. The final trial run was conducted recently using pilot seats manufactured by the British firm Martin-Baker. Kumar added that the system could be modified for use in any type of fighter aircraft.

The ejection system is only the second such attempt by India after the one developed by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bangalore, for use in the advanced jet trainers.

A total of 10 IAF aircraft crashed in 2007, three Kirans, two MiG-21s and Mirage-2000s, one MiG-29 and one advance light helicopter and the country lost seven highly trained pilots in these accidents.