Pune: The CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) in Pune has advanced the On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) in MiG-29 fighter jets, improving oxygen production for pilots during high-altitude missions.

This milestone project, launched at the request of the Indian Navy, was led by Dr. Vijay Bokade, Head of CSIR-NCL’s Catalysis and Inorganic Chemistry Division, alongside Dr. Prashant Niphadkar and their research team.

The OBOGS system, crucial for delivering oxygen at extreme altitudes, operates through zeolite materials that adsorb nitrogen to yield pure oxygen.

Over time, exposure to moisture weakens the effectiveness of these zeolites. In response, CSIR-NCL developed a specialized rejuvenation process that increased the oxygen output in OBOGS units from 30% to an impressive 85%.

Testing at the Naval Aircraft Yard in Goa confirmed this enhancement, and the process has since been expanded to rejuvenate approximately 54 kg of zeolite material, with multiple MiG-29s now operating with the revitalized units.

“This project represents a proud moment for the team, particularly in witnessing the aircraft’s performance after the zeolite rejuvenation,” said Dr. Bokade.

CSIR-NCL’s indigenous zeolite production is expected to ensure the system’s ongoing functionality, underscoring the success of local research in meeting critical defense technology needs. The enhanced OBOGS units are now actively supporting Indian Navy missions at high altitudes.

CSIR-NCL has further developed proprietary technology to synthesize oxygen-enriching zeolites, and integration of these materials into MiG-29 aircraft is underway.