Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) and Private Sector in Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Production

• Government sources argue that a separate manufacturing line for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) by the private sector is economically unviable.

• HAL will have the capability to produce 24 jets next year, with the private industry playing a significant role.

• The private sector will be more involved in the current programme with HAL as the lead integrator.

• The LCA orders are for 180 aircraft beyond the earlier 40, a significant number.

• HAL has gone for a third line, with the production rate of the LCA to reach 24 aircraft per year next year.

• Deliveries of the LCA-Mk1A by HAL to the Indian Air Force (IAF) have been delayed due to non-delivery of F-404 engines by General Electric.

• The integration of the Israeli radar has been completed, and weapon integration is ongoing.

• In 2021, the Defence Ministry signed a ₹48,000 crore deal with HAL to supply 83 LCA-Mk1A, a more capable fighter than the current LCA-MK1.

• The Cabinet Committee on Security sanctioned the development of the LCA-Mk2, a bigger and more capable fighter than the current LCA, at a total cost of ₹9,000 crore.

• The IAF has committed to procuring about 120 LCA-Mk2.

• The IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari suggested more public-private partnerships or joint ventures with private partners to ramp up the production of the LCA.