New Delhi, May 1: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the company responsible for manufacturing fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, has appointed a new leader. Ravi has assumed the role of the 22nd Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of HAL, succeeding Dr. D.K. Sunil, who retired on April 30, 2026.
Ravi has held several significant positions throughout his career. Notably, he served as the General Manager and Executive Director of the LCA Tejas division, which was established for the Air Force. Under his leadership, HAL secured major defense contracts, including the supply of 180 Tejas fighter jets to the Indian Air Force and 156 Apache helicopters for the Indian Army and Air Force. He played a crucial role in the successful induction of Tejas aircraft into the Air Force.
With over 30 years of experience, Ravi has worked in various sectors, including defense, aviation, manufacturing, and electronics. Previously, he was the Director of Operations at HAL, where he significantly contributed to the company’s strategic development. His efforts led to HAL being awarded the prestigious ‘Maharatna’ status, a significant achievement for any public sector company. Ravi aims to transform HAL into a globally competitive aerospace and defense company, focusing on new technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), improved operations, and employee capabilities.
He has implemented several reforms to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, enhancing aircraft availability. Ravi established fast and efficient data connections with Air Force bases and created a system with a single point of contact for any issues. According to HAL, he has also played a vital role in promoting the ‘Make in India’ initiative, increasing indigenous participation in the Tejas fighter jet program, and strengthening production capacity in Nashik.
Additionally, he involved private companies in the manufacturing of major aircraft components, fostering a robust industrial network that is now yielding positive results. HAL reports that under his leadership, the company has ventured into the civil aviation and maintenance sectors, opening new revenue streams and expanding its market.
Ravi holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Malnad College of Engineering in Karnataka. He has also pursued advanced studies at IIM Ahmedabad and in Toulouse, France. He is a board member of Multi-Role Transport Aircraft Limited. HAL is India’s leading aircraft manufacturing company, known for developing indigenous fighter jets like Tejas. The production of Tejas MK-1A is now accelerating, with GE-404 engines being sourced from the U.S. to enhance the aircraft’s capabilities. Under Ravi’s leadership, HAL is expected to become more modern, self-reliant, and globally competitive.
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