Bengaluru: In a landmark achievement for India’s aerospace and defence sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first AL-31FP Aero Engine to the Indian Air Force (IAF) at its Koraput facility yesterday. The event, held in the presence of Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), and Dr. D K Sunil, CMD of HAL, marked the beginning of a crucial project under which HAL will manufacture 240 such engines for the Sukhoi-30MKI fleet. According to press statement released here.
The ceremony saw Saket Chaturvedi, CEO of MiG Complex, presenting the engine to Air Vice Marshal K Harisankar, who received it on behalf of the IAF. The official documentation for the handover was presented by R B Nagaraja, ADG AQA (Koraput). The contract for manufacturing these 240 engines, signed just two weeks prior on September 9, 2024, is scheduled for completion over the next eight years.
In his address, Sanjeev Kumar praised HAL for its swift action and impressive delivery within two weeks of the contract’s signing. “This key milestone reflects HAL’s aero engine manufacturing competency and its dedication to supporting the Su-30MKI fleet. The Koraput Division has mastered cutting-edge technologies in engine manufacturing, setting it on par with global OEMs. I am confident that the division will not only serve the IAF but also grow as a global supplier,” he said.
He encouraged HAL employees to focus on self-reliance and adopt innovative Quality 4.0 processes. His message resonated with India’s mission for self-reliance, or “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” in defence manufacturing.
Dr. Sunil echoed this sentiment, emphasizing HAL’s commitment to timely delivery and proactive planning. “Koraput Division will continue to enhance its capacity and capabilities to meet the IAF’s expectations. As part of the government’s vision for Atmanirbharta, we are increasing our engagement with Indian industries, aiming to raise their work share in this project from the current 40% to over 50% within the next two to three years. This initiative will also generate employment and strengthen the domestic aerospace ecosystem,” he stated.
As HAL continues to align its goals with the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), Dr. Sunil reassured that HAL will play a significant role in bolstering India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Air Vice Marshal Harisankar acknowledged the longstanding support of HAL’s Koraput Division, which has played a pivotal role in maintaining the MiG-21, MiG-29, and Su-30MKI fleets over the years. He expressed appreciation for the division’s resilience and expertise.
HAL’s Sukhoi Engine Division in Koraput is a state-of-the-art facility created to manufacture engines for the Su-30MKI, starting from raw material processing to the final engine assembly. This facility is a testament to HAL’s ongoing efforts to boost India’s self-reliance in defence production.
As the ceremony concluded, it was clear that this first engine handover was not just a routine transfer but a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global player in aerospace and defence manufacturing. With continued support from the Ministry of Defence and a clear vision for the future, HAL is set to strengthen both its domestic and international footprint.
