The Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), a Bengaluru-based lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully conducted high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the LCA Tejas aircraft on Tuesday.
Congratulating DRDO, IAF, Public Sector Undertakings, and industry partners on this significant achievement, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the development of the Indigenous ILSS reaffirms India’s commitment to cutting-edge defence technologies and aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047.’
The OBOGS-based ILSS is a state-of-the-art system designed to generate and regulate breathable oxygen for pilots during flight. This system eliminates the need for traditional liquid oxygen cylinder-based systems, providing greater efficiency and safety. The ILSS underwent rigorous testing on the LCA-Prototype Vehicle-3 aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
The system was tested under extreme conditions, including altitudes of up to 50,000 feet above mean sea level and high-G maneuvers, to ensure its performance met stringent aeromedical standards. The tests evaluated critical parameters such as oxygen concentration, demand breathing, and the availability of 100% oxygen during various flight phases, including aerobatic maneuvers, take-offs, cruises, G turns, and approach and landing.
The system’s performance during these tests was deemed successful, meeting all specified parameters for full functional testing of components such as the Anti-G Valve and Breathing Oxygen System (BOS) during key flight stages. With clearance from the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), the ILSS has proven its reliability and efficiency.
The ILSS integrates 10 Line Replaceable Units, including the Low-Pressure Breathing Regulator, BOS, Emergency Oxygen System, Oxygen Sensor, and Anti-G valve, among others. These components work together to ensure real-time oxygen generation, significantly enhancing pilot endurance and operational effectiveness during flight.
Manufactured by L&T as a Development cum Production Partner, the system represents a remarkable collaboration between DRDO and Indian defence industries. Notably, the ILSS has 90% indigenous content, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in aerospace technology. With suitable modifications, the system can be adapted for use in other aircraft, such as the MiG-29K.
