India's Defence Manufacturing Transformation

India has significantly reduced its dependence on imported defense hardware, now producing 65% domestically. The goal is to increase this to 100%, ensuring all armed forces' equipment is made locally.

Inauguration of Production Lines

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third production line for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A and the second line for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT40) at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Nashik.
• The first LCA produced at this facility was flagged off and conducted its maiden public flight.

Policy Changes and Private Sector Involvement

• Policy changes are underway to enhance private sector participation in defense manufacturing.
• Proposals include treating fully owned subsidiaries of foreign companies on par with Indian companies for defense contracts.

Transition of the Nashik Facility

• The Nashik facility, historically a producer of Russian-origin MiGs and Sukhois, is now focused on indigenous platforms like the LCA and HTT40.
• The new aircraft engines are sourced from American companies - GE for LCA and Honeywell for HTT40.

Strategic Goals

• India aims to further reduce foreign dependencies and access technology for self-reliance.
• Targets include increasing defense manufacturing to ₹3 lakh crore and exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029.

HAL's Role in National Security

• HAL was commended for its operational support to the Indian Air Force (IAF) during Operation Sindoor, ensuring the readiness of fighter jets and helicopters.
• Notable efforts include integrating Brahmos missiles onto Su30MKI fighter jets, demonstrating India's capability to produce critical national security equipment.