The Design of the MiG 17 Prof. Prodyut Das 11 May 2026 The MiG 17 was so close in design to the MiG 15 that it was initially designated MiG 15 Bis/ 45, the 45 referring to the ten degrees increase in wing sweep over its predecessor. Though near identical to its predecessor, its engineering Historiography is a case study in frugal engineering combined with careful improvement of a good base. The superb MiG 15- really a one and a half generation aircraft- was morphed into an effective match to the 3 rd generation Western fighter despite technological constraints in the engine which enforced a larger fuselage cross section, was ...
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The Indian Aeronautical Industry- Birth, decline and the future – Prof. Prodyut Das 08 June 2026 The Indian Aeronautical Industry is now in its 86 th year. In terms of continuous existence, it is older than the German Aeronautical Industry though comparisons must end there, When Lala Hirachand Walchand, was refused permission to build the Hindustan Aircraft Limited in Calcutta in 1939 he chose to go to the Wodeyar Maharaja of Mysore State who donated land and invested in the new Company. The original plan for aircraft manufacture was disrupted by the Second World War and HAL became a giant MRO for the SE Asia theatre of war. It was an enormous blessing in disguise. The Indians were exposed not only to a vast range of the very latest designs but also the direct exposure to American Management methods including taking decisions “on the feet”- the “Gung ho” but methodical approach of Americans to meeting challenges that war time MRO brought. The later re...
The Design of the MiG 15 - an engineering commentary Prof. Prodyut Das 22 February 2026 Should he set his mind to do so, enough information exists on the internet for an engineer to be able to design and build a fair working replica of the MiG 15. The design flew about 80 years ago and is not even transonic so is a study of it at all relevant today? Surprisingly, yes! Aircraft design is a “curry” of analysis blended with information, knowledge and wisdom. The analysis (stress, aerodynamics) figures are case specific to the type, the knowledge, methodology and wisdom is mutable and long lasting - particularly as markers, standards, signposts and cautions in the march to a new design. I will not spoil by suggesting (and sparking outrage) that given the advent of AAM +AI the transonic regimen of the MiG 15 is an area we may be forced to re-investigate, En...