By Aritra Banerjee
On February 6, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Helicopter Factory at Tumakuru, Karnataka. This state-of-the-art facility, India’s largest helicopter manufacturing plant, will initially produce Light Utility Helicopters (LUHs), indigenous three-ton, single-engine helicopters designed for high manoeuvrability. With a capacity to produce 30 helicopters per year, the facility has the potential to increase production to 60 and then 90 helicopters annually in a phased manner.
In his address, the Prime Minister highlighted the investment made in the aerospace sector in the past eight-nine years, which is five times the amount invested before 2014. He also emphasised that made-in-India defence products, including the LUH, are supplied to the Armed Forces and contribute to the growth of defence exports. The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of setting up such manufacturing units as they not only strengthen the Indian Armed Forces but also create employment and self-employment opportunities.
The Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, also lauded the Prime Minister’s leadership and the collective effort of all citizens in contributing to national security and socio-economic empowerment through the defence manufacturing sector. He described the HAL Helicopter Factory as a testament to India’s growing indigenous capabilities and the government’s unwavering resolve towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The 615-acre greenfield factory is designed to be a one-stop solution for all helicopter requirements in the country and will eventually produce other helicopters, such as Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs) and Indian Multirole Helicopters (IMRHs). The facility will also be utilised for the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul of LCH, LUH, Civil Advanced Light Helicopter, and more.
In conclusion, the HAL Helicopter Factory represents a significant milestone in India’s defence manufacturing sector and further cement the country’s position as a powerful player in the global aerospace industry.
