Rajnath Singh Champions India's Aero-Engine Self-Reliance at HAL's Milestone Event

A New Era in Aerospace Sovereignty

Koraput: On Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that achieving self-sufficiency in aero-engine production is crucial for India's aerospace independence.

This declaration was made during a ceremony celebrating the delivery of the 2,000th aero-engine produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at its Koraput Division, alongside the announcement of a new Shakti engine manufacturing line in Sunabeda, Odisha.

The new facility, which has an investment of Rs 218 crore, aims to produce up to 100 engines each year and is expected to be fully operational by 2028-29, supporting indigenous helicopters such as the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and the Prachand Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).

Singh remarked, "Self-reliance in aero-engines is the cornerstone of India's complete aerospace sovereignty. We are advancing in developing indigenous high-thrust engines, testing facilities, and robust Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, thereby establishing a strong engine ecosystem in the nation."

He highlighted that the delivery of the 2,000th engine marks a significant achievement for domestic defense manufacturing, noting that the Koraput Division has also refurbished over 9,000 aero-engines.

"This milestone signifies 2,000 vital contributions to the operational capabilities of our defense forces, reflecting six decades of engineering expertise since the establishment of the Koraput Division in 1964," he added.

Singh pointed out that the Koraput Division has played a pivotal role in military aviation, with its engines powering key aircraft like the MiG-21, MiG-27, MiG-29, and Su-30MKI.

He explained that while new production enhances capabilities, overhauls are essential for extending service life, both of which are critical for military readiness.

The Minister noted that localizing components and minimizing turnaround times are vital for maintaining operational readiness and prolonging the lifespan of essential defense assets.

Referring to the aero-engine as the "heart" of an aircraft, Singh stressed that dependable propulsion is necessary for the effective use of advanced airframes, radars, weapons, and avionics.

He underscored the importance of expertise in precision manufacturing, advanced materials, metallurgy, cooling technologies, testing, and rigorous quality assurance.

Singh asserted that aerospace self-reliance must encompass indigenous aero-engine capabilities, especially for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) initiative.

He mentioned a proposed investment of approximately Rs 5,000 crore for the indigenization of raw materials in collaboration with Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) and the establishment of India's first indigenous high-thrust engine testing facility.

Singh revealed that the government has placed an order for 240 AL-31FP engines with HAL for the Su-30MKI in 2024, and despite global supply chain challenges, the first engine was delivered ahead of schedule, with 63 engines delivered against a target of 60 by the end of the second year.

He announced that HAL is increasing its annual production capacity for AL-31FP engines from 30 to 50, with an investment of Rs 335 crore.

Highlighting the necessity for reliable indigenous propulsion within India's helicopter sector, Singh stated that the armed forces require engines that are readily available, supported throughout their lifecycle, and adaptable to new technologies.

He acknowledged that developing aero-engines is a long-term commitment that demands continuous investment, specialized testing, skilled labor, and a robust industrial ecosystem, focusing on consistent, reliable, and scalable production, design, critical materials, and superalloys.

Singh also called for enhanced collaboration among MSMEs, start-ups, private industries, academia, and research institutions within the propulsion ecosystem.

He urged HAL to evolve Koraput into not just an engine production site but a comprehensive aerospace propulsion ecosystem by fostering suppliers, mentoring MSMEs, supporting start-ups, and partnering with universities and research institutions.

Accompanied by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Singh engaged with engineers, technicians, and other staff at the HAL division.

He emphasized Odisha's strategic role in the defense and aerospace sectors, citing its extensive coastline, ports, mineral resources, industrial infrastructure, and skilled workforce.

Singh concluded by noting that the government has already sanctioned an Aerospace and Defence Equipment Manufacturing Complex in Gajamara, Dhenkanal.