On March 4, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO)’s Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), located in Bengaluru, successfully completed high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. With this milestone, India’s aerospace technology and defense system independence have advanced significantly.
The OBOGS-based ILSS is a cutting-edge technology that replaces conventional liquid oxygen cylinder-based systems by producing and controlling breathing oxygen for pilots while they are in flight. Pilots benefit from this innovation’s increased operational flexibility and safety, especially during tough flight circumstances and high-altitude missions. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) created the LCA-Prototype Vehicle-3 aircraft, which was used for extensive testing of the system. To ensure adherence to strict aeromedical standards, the testing were carried out in a variety of flight situations, including high-G maneuvers and altitudes of up to 50,000 feet Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL).
The performance evaluations covered critical parameters such as oxygen concentration, demand breathing, availability of 100% oxygen, and functionality during aerobatic maneuvers. Specific tests included the operation of the Anti-G Valve, Breathing Oxygen System (BOS) during taxiing, take-off, cruise, G-turns, and landing. Following comprehensive assessments, the system received flight clearance from the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), confirming that it met all specified requirements.
The ILSS integrates 10 Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), including the Low-Pressure Breathing Regulator, BOS, Emergency Oxygen System, Oxygen Sensor, Anti-G Valve, and other advanced components. These features ensure real-time oxygen generation and regulation, significantly enhancing pilot endurance and operational effectiveness during missions. The system’s ability to adapt to extreme flight conditions underscores its reliability and robustness.
Manufactured by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) as a Development cum Production Partner, the ILSS exemplifies the successful collaboration between DRDO and Indian defence industries. Notably, the system boasts 90% indigenous content, aligning with India’s vision of self-reliance in defence technology. With appropriate modifications, the ILSS can also be adapted for use in other aircraft, such as the MiG-29K, further expanding its operational utility.
This achievement is the result of collaborative efforts involving DEBEL, ADA, HAL, CEMILAC, the National Flight Test Center, the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance, and the Indian Air Force (IAF). The successful high-altitude trials of the ILSS represent a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of cutting-edge defence technologies.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the IAF, Public Sector Undertakings, and industry partners for this remarkable achievement. He emphasized that the development of the ILSS reinforces India’s commitment to advancing defence technologies and aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’ Similarly, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, praised the DRDO team, the IAF, and industry partners for their contributions to the successful trial of the Indigenous ILSS for LCA Tejas.
This milestone not only enhances the operational capabilities of the LCA Tejas but also positions India as a global leader in indigenous aerospace innovation, paving the way for future advancements in defence technology.
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