Already facing flak for the huge delay in production of the indigenous Tejas fighters as well as the grounding of the over 330 Dhruv advanced light helicopters for safety checks since a crash on Jan 5, Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) came under fresh ack-ack fire on Thursday in Parliament.
The parliamentary committee on public undertakings slammed HAL for prolonged project timelines, impaired costs, and missed strategic opportunities. “Systemic inefficiencies continue to hinder HAL’s ability to meet operational demands (of the armed forces) effectively,” it said.
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh in recent weeks has publicly lashed out at HAL, noting that he was “just not confident” of the defence PSU, which was a “very wrong” thing to happen. The IAF is “very badly off in numbers” and needs to induct at least 40 fighters every year to stay combat ready, he said.
The committee, on its part, stressed the “urgent need” for HAL to transition from a “reactive to a proactive R&D strategy”, ensuring that technological advancements align seamlessly with national defence objectives and market requirements.
While recognizing HAL’s pivotal role in advancing the country’s defence and aerospace capabilities, contributing significantly to indigenous aircraft, helicopters and engine development, the committee said a CAG report of 2023 had highlighted “critical shortcomings” in its project planning, execution, procurement delays and cost overruns.
“The committee firmly believes that rigorous adherence to pre-project processes, enhanced risk assessment mechanisms, and structured stakeholder engagements are essential for HAL to achieve global competitiveness in defence manufacturing,” it said.
Strengthening financial oversight, establishing robust market research frameworks, and ensuring timely compliance with international certification standards is crucial for HAL to position itself as a leading aerospace powerhouse on the global stage.
The committee urged the HAL and defence ministry to implement the recommendations in letter and spirit, ensuring that future projects are executed with greater efficiency, financial prudence, and strategic foresight.
“The success of India’s defence modernization and indigenization efforts will depend not just on technological advancements but on the ability to integrate innovation with effective project management, accountability, and long-term vision. HAL’s progress in these areas will not only strengthen national security but also cement India’s position as a global leader in defence and aerospace manufacturing,” it said.
