HAL and India’s Fighter Aircraft Production Journey

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the backbone of India’s aerospace and defence industry. Established in 1940 in Bangalore as Hindustan Aircraft Limited by industrialist Walchand Hirachand, the company played a pivotal role in India’s aviation even before independence. During World War II, HAL serviced Allied aircraft. After independence, it gradually came under the Indian government’s control, merging with other aviation organizations and becoming Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 1964.

Today, HAL is a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU), with expertise in aircraft design, development, manufacturing, repair, and overhaul. It has been the key driver behind India’s journey from licensed production of foreign aircraft to indigenous fighters like Tejas and the upcoming AMCA.

Early Licensed Production Era

• • HF-24 Marut (1961): India’s first indigenous jet fighter, designed by Kurt Tank (ex-Messerschmitt). Though ahead of its time, it lacked a powerful engine.

• • MiG-21 (1964): Produced under license, became the backbone of the IAF for decades.

• • Jaguar (1978): Anglo-French deep strike aircraft, produced under license in India.

• • Mirage 2000 (1980s onwards – upgrades): HAL took on modernization and upgrade roles.

• • Sukhoi Su-30MKI (1990s – present): License production of India’s frontline air dominance fighter.

Indigenous Fighter Aircraft Programs

HF-24 Marut (1961)

India’s first indigenous fighter jet. Operationally limited due to engine shortfalls but a historic milestone.

Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas

A lightweight multirole fighter in service with the IAF and Navy. HAL manages mass production; Mk1A variant with upgraded avionics, AESA radar, and EW suite is rolling out now.

Tejas Mk2 (Upcoming)

A medium-weight fighter with more range and payload. Developed by ADA, production will be spearheaded by HAL.

Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA – future)

India’s 5th generation stealth fighter program. HAL will be a key production partner alongside DRDO and private industry.

Trainer and Support Aircraft Contributions

• HT-2 (1950s): India’s first indigenous trainer aircraft.
• HJT-16 Kiran (1960s): Basic jet trainer for IAF pilots.
• Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT Sitara): Development faced delays but HAL continues refinement.
• HTT-40 (recent): A modern turboprop trainer, fully designed and produced by HAL.

Helicopters and Other Aerospace Projects

• Dhruv ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter)

Upgrades and Overhauls

HAL’s work doesn’t end at production — it has modernized, upgraded, and serviced aircraft for decades:

• Mirage 2000, Jaguar, MiG-29 upgrades.
• Su-30MKI maintenance and overhaul.
• Major role in engine repair and avionics modernization.

HAL’s Future Role

As India eyes self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in defence, HAL will be crucial:

• Scaling up Tejas Mk1A production.
• Preparing for Tejas Mk2 assembly lines.
• AMCA & TEDBF (Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter) production in the 2030s.
• Collaborating with private sector players for faster innovation.