DRDO : The Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), a Bengaluru-based unit under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully carried out high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the LCA Tejas on March 4, 2025.
The advanced ILSS, designed to generate and regulate breathable oxygen for pilots in-flight, eliminates the reliance on traditional liquid oxygen cylinder systems. The system underwent extensive testing on the LCA-Prototype Vehicle-3 of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), ensuring compliance with stringent aeromedical standards. It was evaluated under diverse flight conditions, including altitudes up to 50,000 feet above mean sea level and high-G maneuvers.
The trials assessed key performance aspects such as oxygen concentration, demand-based breathing, 100% oxygen availability, and functionality during aerobatic maneuvers. The system was tested across various flight phases—taxiing, takeoff, cruising, high-G turns, and landing—while also validating the Anti-G Valve and Breathing Oxygen System (BOS). Following clearance from the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), the ILSS successfully met all operational requirements.
The ILSS integrates 10 Line Replaceable Units, including a Low-Pressure Breathing Regulator, BOS, Emergency Oxygen System, Oxygen Sensor, and Anti-G Valve, ensuring real-time oxygen generation to enhance pilot endurance and operational effectiveness. Developed in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as a Development cum Production Partner, the system boasts 90% indigenous content, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in aerospace technology. With appropriate modifications, it can also be adapted for aircraft like the MiG-29K.
This milestone was achieved through the coordinated efforts of DEBEL, ADA, HAL, CEMILAC, the National Flight Test Center, the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance, and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, IAF, public sector undertakings, and industry partners for this remarkable achievement, highlighting its role in advancing India’s defence capabilities and aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also commended the DRDO team, IAF, and industry collaborators for their contribution to the successful high-altitude trials of the Indigenous ILSS for LCA Tejas.