Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is facing a packed production schedule for the next 3-4 years, confirmed its Chairman and Managing Director C B Ananthakrishnan. The company has substantial orders for Tejas fighter jets, Dhruv helicopters, aircraft engines, and other defense equipment.
- Fulfilling Current Commitments: HAL's top priority is completing orders for 83 Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets (with an additional 97 on order), 34 Dhruv advanced helicopters, 70 basic trainer aircraft, and hundreds of engines for India's MiG-29 and Su-30MKI jets. A new assembly line in Nashik will support these demands.
- Boosting Tejas Production: To speed up delivery, HAL is ramping up Tejas production capacity to 16 jets per year through collaboration with private industry suppliers. The aim is to deliver all 83 Tejas fighters one year ahead of schedule.
- Exports in Focus: HAL is actively pursuing export orders, eyeing the Philippines as a major customer for its LCH Prachand attack helicopter. Negotiations with Egypt and Nigeria are also underway. The recent interest from the Philippines Coast Guard highlights HAL's growing international appeal.
- Helicopter Success: The Dhruv helicopter remains a key HAL product with over 300 delivered to Indian forces. The new armed Mk-4 variant adds to its capabilities. HAL sees continued demand for helicopters in the export market.
- The Prachand Advantage: HAL's CMD highlighted the Prachand's unique ability to operate at high altitudes with a considerable payload, a critical advantage proven in the Siachen Glacier.
- Future Ambitions: HAL's long-term goal is to become a technology leader in the defense sector, working closely with private industry and investing in cutting-edge research and development.
