In a major boost to India’s defence and space sector, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, visited Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru on Tuesday to assess the progress of key indigenous projects.
The high-level review underscores the Centre’s continued emphasis on self-reliance in defence production and India’s growing presence in space exploration.
HAL Showcases Indigenous Projects to Dr. Mishra
Dr. Mishra, a 1972-batch IAS officer, was welcomed by Dr. D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, and other senior officials. The visit began at the Aircraft Research & Design Centre (ARDC), where Dr. Mishra inspected the LCA Mk 2 hangar. He then proceeded to the LCA Tejas Assembly Hangar, where he reviewed HAL’s manufacturing capabilities and ongoing production.
HAL showcased six LCA Tejas Mk 1A fighter jets and two Mk 1 trainer aircraft currently under assembly—highlighting the operational maturity of India’s homegrown Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme.
HAL Displays Next-Gen Helicopters and Training Aircraft
HAL also presented its latest indigenous rotorcraft and trainer aircraft, including:
Prachand (Light Combat Helicopter – LCH)
Light Utility Helicopter (LUH)
Dhruv (Advanced Light Helicopter – ALH)
HTT-40 (Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40)
These platforms reflect HAL’s expanded role in India’s multi-dimensional defence preparedness and its commitment to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative.
HAL’s Role in India’s Space Missions Recognised
Joining Dr. Mishra was ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan, as both reviewed HAL’s Aerospace Division. The visit covered inspections of:
GSLV Mk III and PSLV assembly units
Advanced welding and integration facilities
Components for ISRO’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission
Integrated Cryogenic Engine Manufacturing Facility
Notably, HAL has recently been selected for Technology Transfer (ToT) for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)—a move marking HAL’s growing prominence in India’s space sector.
Strategic Role of HAL Applauded
Dr. Mishra praised HAL’s continued contributions toward strategic self-reliance, technological innovation, and capacity building in defence and aerospace. He called HAL a “critical pillar of India’s high-tech manufacturing ecosystem,” applauding its alignment with national priorities.
About HAL
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a premier Indian public sector enterprise in aerospace and defence, headquartered in Bengaluru. Founded in 1940, HAL is one of the oldest and largest defence manufacturers globally. It designs, develops, manufactures, and maintains a wide range of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and other advanced aerospace systems.
