Prime Minister Narendra Modi experienced a Tejas aircraft flight at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Commending India’s self-sufficiency in defense, Modi underscored his government’s commitment to indigenous production. The visit encompassed an assessment of HAL’s manufacturing site, emphasizing the strategic importance of Tejas. Under Modi’s leadership, a substantial order of $4.9 billion for 83 LCA Mk 1A aircraft has been placed, with deliveries beginning by February 2024. Over $1.2 billion has been allocated for the development of the more advanced LCA Mk 2.
Efforts to enhance indigenous capabilities include negotiations with GE for the manufacturing of aircraft engines. Defense exports reached an unprecedented $2.1 billion in FY 2022-2023, as highlighted by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari revealed plans to procure 97 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft and upgrade 84 Sukhoi-30MKI jets, amounting to a significant investment of $27 billion.
The defense ministry is poised to sign a contract with HAL for 156 light combat helicopters, involving an expenditure of $2.1 billion. This marks a substantial leap forward in strengthening India’s defense capabilities.
