HAL is Powering Ahead with Multiple Projects

Atul Chandra - : Jun 17, 2025 - : 3:08 am

India’s state-owned airframer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is participating at the ongoing Paris Airshow, with an intent to grow the company’s international presence and enter into new partnerships for the Indian market. HAL is the sole manufacturer of fighter aircraft, military helicopters and military transport aircraft in India.

In an exclusive interview with GBP Aerospace & Defence, Dr. D.K. Sunil, HAL’s Chairman & Managing Director with Addl. Charge of Director (Engg and R&D) outlined the state-owned airframers plans to increase Tejas Mk-1A deliveries to the Indian air force. Dr. Sunil also confirmed that the roll-out of the first prototype LCA Mk2 fighter aircraft is planned for next year.

Edited excerpts from the interview:

Please provide an update on HAL Tejas Mk-1 & Tejas Mk-1A aircraft and steps taken to meet IAF production rates?

The production activities for the LCA Tejas MK1 have been completed. Production under the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) contract and Final Operational Clearance (FOC) is complete. HAL initiated the series production of LCA Mk1A concurrently with design and development. However, the series production has been affected due to a delay in the supply of engines by General Electric (GE). Efforts are currently underway to accelerate engine deliveries from GE to meet the production requirements.

LCA Mk1A: HAL has established two production lines in Bengaluru. A third production line is being established at HAL Nasik to increase the total production capacity to 24 aircraft per year and ensure delivery as per contract timelines. HAL is set to roll out the first Tejas Mk1A from the third line in 2025.

With the supply chain stabilising, aircraft manufacturing is on course to achieve the rated capacity well beyond the contracted schedule and HAL aims to complete the deliveries to Indian Air Force at the earliest.

Please provide an update on LCA Mk2 and plans prototype roll-out and maiden flight ?

HAL is the principal partner to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in the indigenous design and development of LCA Mk-2, a 4.5 generation multirole combat aircraft. The structural assembly of the first prototype aircraft is under progress and the roll out of the prototype aircraft is planned for 2026.

What is the current status of ALH Dhruv helicopters and what are total orders on hand and deliveries due for this workhorse utility helicopter?

The contract for the supply of 25 ALHs to the Indian Army and nine to the Indian Coast Guard is currently being executed. To date, 16 helicopters have been produced and the production of remaining 18 helicopters is in progress.

Please provide an update on IMRH/DBMRH programme.

The Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH) are 13-ton medium-lift helicopters being developed by HAL to fulfill various military aviation requirements.

Currently, design and development activities are progressing with internal funding from HAL, while we await government approval. Long lead activities for the project have been identified and are being executed in parallel to ensure timely completion. Additionally, to design, develop, and supply the engines for the IMRH and DBMRH, a joint venture has been established with Safran Helicopter Engines, named SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd, in November 2023.

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