DRDO Successfully Conducts High-Altitude Trials Of Indigenous Life Support System For Tejas Pilots; Can Be Fitted In Other Aircraft

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed high-altitude trials of the Integrated Life Support System (ILSS), a groundbreaking technology useful for the Tejas aircraft pilots, reported The New Indian Express.

Based on the On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), this advanced system is designed to provide pilots with a continuous supply of breathable oxygen during flight. It eliminates the reliance on conventional liquid oxygen cylinder-based systems, marking a significant leap forward in indigenous aerospace capabilities.

The high-altitude trials were conducted on Tuesday (4 March) by the Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), a Bengaluru-based DRDO lab, with the system being tested aboard the LCA-Prototype Vehicle-3 aircraft of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).

The ILSS successfully met stringent aero-medical standards across diverse flight conditions. The defence ministry confirmed, “The performance evaluations during the trials covered critical aspects such as oxygen concentration, demand breathing and aerobatic maneuvers at required altitudes.”

Following flight clearance from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), the system performed in accordance with all specified parameters.

The ILSS incorporates 10 Line Replaceable Units, including a low-pressure breathing regulator, emergency oxygen system, oxygen sensor, anti-G valve, and other advanced components.

Beyond its immediate application for Tejas light combat aircraft, the system is designed for adaptability and can be modified for use in other aircraft, including the MiG-29K.

Manufactured by Larsen and Toubro (L&T) in collaboration with DRDO as a development-cum-production partner, the ILSS boasts 90 per cent indigenous content, reinforcing India’s progress towards self-reliance in aerospace technology.

This milestone has been achieved through the joint efforts of multiple defence and aviation bodies, including DEBEL, ADA, HAL, CEMILAC, the National Flight Test Centre, the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance, and the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement, stating that it underscores India's commitment to cutting-edge defence technologies and aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.

Congratulating DRDO, the Indian Air Force, public sector undertakings, and industry partners, he praised the collaborative effort that led to this “remarkable achievement.”