Converting an LSP to a new standard takes time in developing subsystems & design changes. In case of LSP to Mark 1A, most systems are ready (unlike MWF or AMCA). So they will...
- integrate Astra & ASRAAM to it,
- mesh its EW suite with the radar & RWR,
- do certain structural modifications internally,
- maybe some weight reducing measures too,
- significantly overhaul its mission com & avionics,
- possibly update its flight control softwares,
- rebuild the body with new composites.
The 1st flight is set in 2022, so there will be months of ground test before that. Which means building of the prototype should done by the end of 2021.
I believe they are converting Tejas LSP-8 to mk1a
Bcoz
1.It is the newset of all lsp
2.already have ifr ,which will reduce structural modification time
This photo also shows Tejas lsp 8 has only one flight in 3 months
Now the lsp will be converted to first foc ..then to mk1a
Again most probably astra integration is going on with lsp 7;it has not flown for 3 months
Also last time most of the weapons are tested with lsp 7
1.LSP-7 successfully demonstrated dropping of OFB-built 250kg/450kg HSLD bombs, OFB-built Mk.11N retarder bomb, FAB-250 bomb, OFAB-100-120 bomb.
2.An LCA
Tejas LSP-7 (KH-2017) of the Indian Air Force successfully
fired a
Derby BVR (beyond visual range) air-to-air missile from the western coast of the country while taking off from INS Hansa, Goa
Note-first derby fired from lsp 7 in ballistic mode
Lsp 2 is flying with uttam aesa
Now which lsp wil be modified for elta 2052...
Again if you will check the photo sp6 was with Ada with 8 flights....for what reason ...is it still with Ada ,will know once Ada updates the data
....