"The upgrade will enable the 'Darin III'
Jaguar to fly in all-weather with air-to-air,
air-to-ground and air-to-sea capabilities, using
latest avionics and multi-mode radar," HAL
chairman R.K. Tyagi said in a statement here.
The new version boasts of mission computer, engine
and flight instrument system, solid state digital
recording system and data recorder, autopilot,
radar, global positioning system and radar warning
receiver.
"The upgraded aircraft has also modern navigation,
electronic warfare and weapon delivery system
with latest man-machine interface near the glass
cockpit and two multi-function displays and head-up
display," Tyagi said.
The company's mission and combat system research
centre re-designed the ground attack aircraft
spanning its software, hardware and sub-systems
while its overhaul division carried the trial
modification.
"The maiden test flight was carried under
the leadership of Air Vice Marshal Raghunath Nambiar
by our flight test centre jointly with the air
force's Aircraft System Testing Establishment
(ASTE) and the IAF's software development institute
here."
IAF is modernising its fleet of 120 Jaguars with
higher power engines and autopilots at an estimated
cost of Rs.3,013 crore after three decades of
service. US Honeywell has already been given the
RfP for engine upgrade.
The nuclear capable Anglo-French Jaguars have
been stationed at their home base in Ambala in
northern India since their induction about 30
years ago.
(IANS)
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