Concept studies on the twin-engined Medium Combat Aircraft (MCA) have been under way for some time. It is a stealth aircraft optimised for the ground attack role. About the only components common with the LCA will be part of the wing, the Kaveri engine, and some systems and subsystems.
"The LCA wing gives good performance, we understand its aerodynamics well, and would like to retain it for the MCA," says Dr. Harinarayana. It will operate at a much higher wing loading than that of the LCA. The MCA will be in the 12 ton clean weight class, with a maximum take-off weight of about 18 ton. With the emphasis on stealth, the MCA will have two small, outward-canted fins. For stealth reasons, the Kaveri engines will be without afterburners. They will have a slightly higher dry thrust than the LCA engine. These engines will also have thrust-vectoring nozzles for manoeuvring. A super cruise capability is not being sought for the MCA. The MCA will use the radar-absorbent material to reduce RCS.
Also for stealth reasons, external fuel tanks will be mounted above the wings, as is being considered for the LCA. Stores will be carried externally, however, possibly conformally under the wing & fuselage, and will therefore increase radar cross section until released. If all goes well, the LCA and the MCA, along with the indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), which is approaching certification, will put India on the map as a major aerospace manufacturing country.
