On October 19, a book titled Paper to Flight, detailing the design and development of India’s carrier-borne Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Navy, was released in Bengaluru. The book, written by Cmde C.D. Balaji (Retd), former Director of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), offers insights into the challenges and breakthroughs experienced during the program’s development. It is published by Pentagon Press and marks the first comprehensive account of the LCA Navy project, jointly undertaken by ADA, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and the Indian Navy.
Dr. V.K. Aatre, former DRDO chief, spoke at the event, emphasizing the significance of the program’s technological advancements. He noted the successful development of critical components like the arrester hook and landing gear. The author, Cmde Balaji (Retd), shared his experiences from the early 2000s when the project first received Cabinet approval, recounting the unforeseen difficulties in adapting the aircraft from the Air Force to Navy specifications.
The book also sheds light on specialized infrastructure created for testing, including the Shore Based Test Facility in Goa. Dr. Kota Harinarayana, another former ADA Director, praised the book’s accessibility, noting its value to both professionals and the general public.
The launch was attended by representatives from DRDO, HAL, and the Indian Navy, among other stakeholders. The book is priced at ₹995 and is available online.