Context:
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new production line of HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) in Nashik, enabling the production of 24 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets per year. This move strengthens India’s defence manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat and reduces dependence on foreign defence imports.
Key Highlights / Details
Expansion of Production
- Third production line for LCA Tejas Mk1A inaugurated at HAL Nashik.
- Second line for HTT-40 (Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40) training aircraft also launched.
- Other Tejas production lines already operational in Bengaluru.
- HAL aims for 24 Tejas jets/year to expedite Indian Air Force (IAF) fleet expansion.
Strategic Significance
- Tejas Mk1A is India’s indigenously developed light combat aircraft with 65% indigenous components (target 75%).
- Supports India’s goal of defence self-reliance and reduced imports.
- Boosts Make in India defence manufacturing capacity.
- Provides export potential to friendly countries under defence diplomacy.
Government Stand
- Rajnath Singh asserted that:
- India earlier depended on imports; now reversing that trend.
- Indigenisation is crucial due to geopolitical vulnerabilities.
- HAL plays a critical role in national security.
- Mentioned successful missions using indigenous aircraft like LCA Tejas, MiG-21 (legacy), and BrahMos integrated on Su-30MKI.
Relevant Prelims Points
- HAL: Indian state-owned aerospace and defence manufacturer headquartered in Bengaluru.
- Tejas LCA:
- Designed by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
- Manufactured by HAL.
- Replaced ageing MiG-21 fleet.
- HTT-40: Indigenous basic trainer aircraft used by IAF.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence: Targets ₹1.75 lakh crore defence production by 2025.
Relevant Mains Points
- Defence Indigenisation reduces foreign dependency and enhances strategic autonomy.
- Dual-use technology growth boosts industrial innovation.
- Positive impact on job creation, MSME participation, defence exports.
- Challenges: supply chain capability, R&D funding, testing infrastructure.