HAL CMD launches the ‘Metal Cutting for Titanium Bulkhead’ of 5th Gen AMCA aircraft

New Delhi: In a major development Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) CMD R Madhavan on Wednesday launched the 'Metal Cutting for Titanium Bulkhead of AMCA aircraft'. The launch has been conducted as part of technology development at Aircraft Manufacturing Division, Nashik, HAL said in a tweet. Dr A K Ghosh, PD(AMCA) ADA, senior officers from DMRL, ADA and other Government agencies were present during the occasion.

The pressure bulkhead of an aircraft is an essential component that covers the front and rear end of a fuselage. Bulkheads are a critical structure that is entirely one piece. Ground-testing of bulkheads is an essential part of the development process of the desired service life and also weight management of the aircraft.

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It is expected that the first prototype rollout of the 5th generation advanced medium combat aircraft will take place by 2023 and the first flight by 2024. However, the defence PSU is looking at a timeline of 2026-28 to begin production and full-fledged production is expected to begin by 2029.

The AMCA MK-II will feature an indigenous 126kn trust engine to be developed jointly by SAFRAN and DRDO. The development time it may supposedly take is anything between 7-8 years.

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