In a push to improve fleet readiness, the Indian Navy has issued a Request for Information dated April 11, 2026, inviting private industry to participate in the NASK 1-29K Ground Automated Test System program for its MiG-29K aircraft. The effort is part of Project 45A, aimed at localizing key support systems and overcoming long-standing maintenance challenges.
The NASK 1-29K is a critical diagnostic solution designed to replace legacy Russian equipment. Acting as a mobile testing lab, it conducts comprehensive pre-flight checks, validating nearly all major aircraft subsystems. Through structured maintenance protocols, it assesses avionics and the four-channel digital flight control system, ensuring reliability under demanding carrier-based operations.
The system also evaluates fuel and air data components susceptible to corrosion in maritime conditions, while ensuring the aircraft’s electrical systems deliver consistent power—especially important as upgrades like the Uttam AESA radar are integrated.
Beyond maintenance, NASK plays a key role in mission readiness by verifying weapon and radar functionality. It simulates weapon deployment scenarios to ensure seamless integration with advanced munitions such as the Astra Mk1 missile and future systems like BrahMos-NG. The system will also support calibration of AESA radar modules, a complex process requiring high precision.
The RFI outlines a complementary deployment model, with NASK systems stationed at land bases like INS Hansa for extensive maintenance, while the KSAK 1-29K variant will be used onboard carriers including INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya for quick diagnostics and troubleshooting. This integrated “shore-to-sea” framework ensures sustained operational support across all mission phases.
