New Delhi, April 3: Dr. D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), provided insights into India’s indigenous defense programs during an exclusive interview with a news agency on Thursday. He discussed the progress of the Tejas MK-1A delivery, engine supply, the SU-57, Tejas MK-2, and the impact of global events.
Dr. Sunil stated that significant advancements have been made in the Tejas MK-1A program. “As of today, we have completed 21 aircraft. We currently have five engines available, with a sixth engine on the way. The aircraft are ready, and only one or two items remain in the design and development phase,” he noted.
He referred to discussions held with the Indian Air Force (IAF) in December, stating, “We informed them about the readiness of key items such as BVR missiles, laser-guided rockets, and radar. The enhancement of radar range will be completed in April. We will have further discussions with the Air Force in May, and we expect some concrete decisions to be made then. By that time, we will have six aircraft ready.”
Regarding engine supply, Dr. Sunil acknowledged challenges in the supply chain due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. “When the aircraft were designed around this engine, options were limited. We are in constant contact with GE. The company has new management, and automation in testing has increased. We are confident that the situation is on the right track, with 20 engines expected to arrive between July and December this year.”
On the deal for 180 Tejas MK-1A aircraft, he mentioned, “This deal will take about seven years to complete. The pace of delivery mainly depends on engine supply.” He assured that the technical committee has completed its review and reached conclusions. The aircraft will be back in action by next week.
Discussing the fifth-generation fighter aircraft SU-57, he said, “Technical studies have been completed by Russia. We can utilize 50 percent of the existing facilities. The rest will require investment from Russia for new facilities. We will inform the Air Force about the timeline and costs soon. Some technical aspects remain, which we will finalize in 2-3 months.”
Regarding the supply of Israeli radar amid global tensions (Israel-Hamas and Iran conflict), Dr. Sunil stated, “There has been no significant impact on radar supply from Israel. Initially, there were some effects, but their factories continued to operate, and issues were resolved. We have sufficient materials available for all aircraft. Currently, there are no problems or panic.”
He also provided positive news about the Prachand (LCH) helicopter. “Technical issues with the Coast Guard have been resolved. We are deploying modified gearboxes with new parts. All aircraft for the Navy and Coast Guard will be operational within the next two months,” he added.
Dr. Sunil further mentioned, “We have delivered 35 L-31FP engines. Fifteen Prachand helicopters have been delivered, and 12 are ready to be delivered this year. Financially, all parameters of HAL are strong.”
The HAL Chairman expressed satisfaction with the progress being made in India’s defense sector towards self-reliance. He emphasized the company’s continuous efforts to enhance indigenous production, strengthen the supply chain, and address global challenges.
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