Bengaluru: Following Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh’s concerns over HAL’s Tejas production delays, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya on Thursday lauded the state-run aerospace giant for its achievements in indigenous aircraft manufacturing, calling the HTT-40 trainer aircraft a symbol of India’s self-reliance and technological prowess.
Speaking at Aero India, Surya said the HAL-built aircraft, currently used by the IAF for pilot training, exemplifies the success of Atmanirbharta and showcases India’s aerospace capabilities under the right leadership and institutional support.
“The HTT-40 is the pride of India and the pride of Bengaluru. It stands as a shining example of what the country can achieve with the right leadership and unwavering support for our scientific institutions,” he asserted.
Surya highlighted the HTT-40’s turbulent journey, alleging that the project faced setbacks due to the UPA government’s 2012 decision to procure Pilatus trainer aircraft for ₹2,800 crore. The deal came under scrutiny, and a CBI inquiry in 2019 led to the blacklisting of the Swiss firm involved in the procurement.
“The development of HTT-40 was almost shelved, dealing a severe blow to India’s ambition of building indigenous aircraft. It was only after 2014, with the Prime Minister’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, and the determined efforts of then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, that HAL received the necessary budgetary support and freedom to revive the project,” Surya said.
Surya noted that HTT-40 was developed in a record 40 months, obtained required certifications, and in 2016, Parrikar personally witnessed its first flight, appreciating the scientists and engineers at HAL.
Despite recent concerns over delivery delays in the Tejas programme, HAL has continued to establish itself as a major player in the global defence sector. The HTT-40, developed to replace imported trainer aircraft, has been praised for its modern design and capability. In October 2022, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of 70 HTT-40 aircraft for the Indian Air Force, reinforcing confidence in HAL’s manufacturing prowess.
Additionally, HAL’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) has garnered international interest, with Argentina, Egypt, and the Philippines exploring potential purchases. The company has also secured a deal with Malaysia for LCA spares and support.
Amidst recent remarks by Air Chief Marshal Singh regarding delays in Tejas Mk1A deliveries, HAL has reassured the IAF of its commitment to timely production. HAL Chairman Dr DK Sunil acknowledged the challenges but emphasised that supply chain issues, particularly with jet engines, are being actively addressed.
“It is a great privilege and honour to fly in this aircraft, which stands as a testament to India’s growing self-reliance and the transformative impact of good leadership,” Surya added.
With its continued advancements in indigenous defence production, HAL is positioning itself as a key driver of India’s strategic autonomy in aerospace and military technology.
