Latest news with #TejasLightCombatAircraft
India.com
28-05-2025
- Business
- India.com
Big boost to India's defence sector as India signs major Indo-French Defence deal, Safran Likely to Power Tejas Mk-2 with...
Tejas Light Combat Aircraft New Delhi: The Modi government is making relentless efforts to upgrade and strengthen the country's military capabilities. In a major development, India has now taken a significant step toward manufacturing its own fighter jet engines. According to a Moneycontrol report quoting sources, India is considering a partnership with French aerospace and defense company Safran. This collaboration aims to develop modern engines for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and to create engines for next-generation indigenous fighter aircraft such as the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-2. It is important to note that GE Aerospace, an American defense company, is supplying the F404-IN20 engine for the Tejas Mk-1 fighter jet. However, delays in the supply are affecting the Indian Air Force's planning. In such a scenario, India is now actively exploring all possibilities to rapidly increase indigenous production. After Operation Sindoor, India is working tirelessly to increase the number of fighter jets. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reiterated that if there is a terrorist attack on the Indian border, the response will be strong — whether the attacker is a state or a non-state element. The Indian Air Force has a target of 42 squadrons, but currently, only 31 squadrons are available. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh had expressed concern over the delay in the delivery of Tejas Mk-1 during the Aero India 2025 show held in Bengaluru in February. In response, HAL stated that the delay was due to technical reasons and would be resolved soon. The Story of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft It was around 2009-10 when the program for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) began and the first order for 40 units of the Tejas Mk-1 (32 fighter variants and 8 trainer variants) was placed. These aircraft were expected to be delivered by 2016. Later, in February 2021, the Ministry of Defence and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed a deal worth ₹48,000 crore for a second order of 83 more Tejas Mk-1A aircraft (73 fighters and 10 trainers). According to the reports, the delivery of this batch was supposed to begin in mid-2024. However, it has been delayed. One of the major reasons for this delay is the late supply of the F404-IN20 engines from the American company GE Aerospace, which are to be installed in these aircraft. The initial discussions around the deal also included a proposal for up to 80 percent technology transfer. In March, GE informed that it had delivered 99 F404-IN20 engines to HAL under the 2021 order. Before this, GE had already delivered 65 engines for the Mk-1 version by 2016. Another engine by GE — the F414-GE-INS6 — has been selected for the Tejas Mk-2 and the upcoming fifth-generation fighter aircraft, AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft).
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Made in India 5th-gen fighter jet: Government clears indigenous stealth fighter jet project as China arms Pakistan
NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday green-lighted the 'Made in India' fighter jet programme to produce a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA). India has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop a medium-weight, deep-penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth capabilities to bolster its air power. The AMCA, along with the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), is expected to form the backbone of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the coming decades. "In a significant push towards enhancing India's indigenous defence capabilities and fostering a robust domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Programme Execution Model," the ministry of defence said. The ministry added that private sector companies are invited to participate in the project. "They can bid either independently or as a joint venture or as consortia. The entity/bidder should be an Indian company compliant with the laws and regulations of the country," the ministry said in a statement. This move comes amid heightened tensions with Pakistan after armed forces conducted precision strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir killing over 100 terrorists. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 굿네이버스 기부반지로 아이들 후원하기 굿네이버스 더 알아보기 Undo Meanwhile, a recent US intel report also claimed that Last year, the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, granted in-principle approval to the AMCA programme. The indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet project is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the IAF's combat capabilities. The estimated development cost of the AMCA project stands at approximately Rs 15,000 crore. The IAF has long advocated for the AMCA programme, given its long-term strategic requirements and the absence of a fifth-generation fighter jet in its current fleet. In contrast, China has already inducted its Chengdu J-20 jets, which it claims to be fifth-generation air superiority fighters with precision strike capabilities. India's confidence in the AMCA initiative received a major boost following the successful development of the LCA Tejas. Developed by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas has proven to be a capable platform for air combat and offensive missions, with secondary roles in reconnaissance and anti-ship operations. Meanwhile, the IAF is also in the process of acquiring 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) to enhance its operational readiness. In April 2019, the IAF issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement, estimated at around USD 18 billion. The MRFA deal is considered one of the largest military procurement programmes globally in recent years.
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
‘Data Patterns expects fast tracking of defence orders'
Chennai: Data Patterns (India), a defense and aerospace electronics systems provider, expects fast tracking of defence orders in the current fiscal due to the tensions in the border, according to a senior executive of the company. 'Because of the present situation, orders for some of our products are likely to fast track, for which enquiries are going on. We are likely to get more orders for units delivered earlier and which have performed well during the operations,' Srinivasagopalan Rangarajan, chairman and managing director of Data Patterns, told TOI. 'We expect some large contracts to happen during the course of this year and development has already started so that if order comes, we should be able to deliver quickly,' he said without divulging further details on the size or products given the sensitivity of the subject. The company's current order book stands at Rs 860 crore and it expects to complete around 80% in the current fiscal. Last April its order book stood at Rs 1,083 crore. The company's guidance expects 20% to 25% growth in top and bottom line growth in FY26. Data Patterns is involved in radars, electronic warfare suites and programmes catering to Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, Light Utility Helicopter, BrahMos and works with Hindustan Aeronautics, Bharat Electronics and DRDO. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Click Here For More on embedded analytics expertinspector Click Here Undo It also designs and develops complete products for both domestic (ministry of defence contracts) and export market, which is expected to materialise after testing and approvals. 'Some of these products are in advanced stages of completion and we are making at least Rs 150 crores for building infrastructure and competencies,' Rangarajan added. The company reported a 22% growth in profit after tax in 2024-25 (FY25) fiscal year to Rs 222 crore and 33% increase in total revenue to Rs 755 crore. For the March quarter of FY25, its revenue jumped 109% to Rs 407 crore and PAT grew 61% to Rs 114 crore. The company's board has recommended a final dividend of Rs 7.90 per share. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Mint
15-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Hindustan Aeronautics: Here's all you need to know before investing
Few companies in India have garnered as significant an impact in the aerospace and defence sectors as Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). The state-owned giant has been instrumental in shaping the future of India's aerospace and defence capabilities. With decades of expertise, HAL has grown beyond being a mere supplier of military aircraft to becoming a strategic enabler of national defence, advancing the country's aspirations of self-reliance under initiatives like Make in India. From manufacturing state-of-the-art aircraft to developing cutting-edge drones, HAL's journey is a testament to its resilience, innovation, and vision for the future. The company's financial trajectory, bolstered by a substantial order book and strong government backing, signals strong growth prospects, making it a worthy stock to watch. Here's everything you need to know before investing in HAL. About the company Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) is one of the largest and most renowned aircraft manufacturing companies in India. With a history spanning over seven decades, HAL has been instrumental in the design, development, and production of various aircraft, helicopters, and aero engines. The company's notable achievements include the production of indigenous aircraft like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). HAL's expertise extends to aircraft upgrades, overhaul services, and the manufacture of aero structures, avionics, and other critical components. It has 20 production and overhaul divisions and 9 R&D centres across India. The company inaugurated a new design and test facility at Aero Engine Research & Development Centre in Bangalore in December 2023, to accelerate R&D of aeroengines. HAL has historically been one of the PSUs with largest allocation to R&D costs. The company spends around 8% of the total revenue on R&D. Also, it has created an R&D reserve. An annual contribution of 15% of the operating profit, is transferred into this reserve. HAL's Giant Leap The company's role in India's defence sector is evolving, thanks to strategic initiatives like the Make in India program. This initiative has allowed HAL to step up its innovation game, resulting in enhanced revenue visibility and an increased appetite for taking on capital-intensive projects. HAL's massive order book continues to expand, with major inflows expected in the near future. The company's aggressive push into export markets has also contributed to its growth. With platforms like the LCA Tejas gaining international recognition, HAL is steadily enhancing its export portfolio, positioning itself as a key player on the global defence stage. Notably, HAL has been awarded the largest proposal approval in its history—a project worth ₹70,500 crore for the construction of 60 marine utility helicopters, with an estimated cost of ₹32,000 crore. What makes HAL particularly interesting for investors is its exposure to the growing drone market. The company is at the forefront of developing AI-driven, advanced drones for high-altitude strategic missions. Its emphasis on reducing foreign dependency for such technology aligns with the government's self-reliance goals. Order Book Strength HAL's order book is a key pillar of its growth story. The company's net profit has grown at a CAGR of 26% in the last three years supported by its healthy growth of order book and timely execution. At the end of FY25, its order book stood at a little over ₹1.2 trillion. This is up from ₹94,000 crore as of FY24 and ₹82,000 crore in FY22. In recent times, HAL has received substantial contracts for repair and overhaul services. A landmark contract awarded to HAL by the ministry of defence was in September 2024, for the supply of 240 aero-engines for the Su-30 MKI aircraft, worth ₹26,000 crore. This growing order book provides HAL with visibility for future revenue streams, making it a solid investment proposition. Moreover, HAL is expected to secure additional major contracts over the next few years, with the total order inflows expected to range between ₹1.6 trillion to ₹1.7 trillion over the next 18 months to three years. The management expects full workload until 2032 and expects to maintain double-digit growth in sales. It has also planned ₹14,500 crore capex over five years for capacity expansion and modernisation. HAL is poised for significant order inflows, with ₹1.3 trillion worth of contracts for 97 LCA Tejas Mark 1A and 156 LCH Prachand at an advanced stage of clearance, expected to materialise within the next three to six months. Nevertheless, investors should note that the company has received some criticism due to the delay in delivery of the fighter jets. The typical execution period for the order book extends to a few years, which could further stretch due to time taken to build capabilities. As such, the risk of overruns cannot be ruled out, impacting margins. Financial Performance HAL's financial performance has been robust. Its sales have been growing smoothly. During 2020-24, the sales and net profit have grown at a CAGR of 9.6% and 26%, respectively. The returns have been admirable, reporting an average RoCE and RoE of 30% and 26%, respectively. Due to its large scale and healthy operating profitability, the company's debt coverage metrics remain strong. As a result, its liquidity position is strong, as evidenced by its cash balance of ₹26,400 crore. Given the volatile geopolitical scenario, defence companies like HAL will remain instrumental in India's manufacturing ecosystem and will play a crucial role in helping India become part of global defence supply chain. Stock Performance Over 5 Years HAL has seen its stock price surge significantly in recent years, delivering impressive returns to investors. Over the past one year, HAL's stock has moved up 16% while in the past 5 years it has surged 1,700%, fuelled by increasing investor confidence in the company's growth prospects. What next? The future of HAL is intrinsically tied to India's defence spending, which continues to grow as the government focuses on modernizing the armed forces and strengthening self-reliance in defence technology. HAL is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this increasing budget, particularly as the country looks to reduce reliance on foreign defence suppliers. HAL's drone initiatives are a key area of growth. The company is developing the CATS Warrior, an AI-driven unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that will work alongside manned fighter jets. It's also developing the CATS Hunter, a companion system for unmanned and manned aircraft. The company has set its sights on the launch of the CATS Warrior II, an advanced drone with 10+ hours of endurance and a payload of 400–500 kg, set for production by 2027. In addition to drones, HAL's focus on advanced avionics, AI-driven systems, and the production of strategic aircraft and helicopters further strengthens its growth potential. With an expected capex investment of ₹3,000 crore per year until FY30, HAL's roadmap for the coming years is clear—continued growth, innovation, and deeper integration with India's defence ecosystem. Conclusion HAL's story is one of steady evolution, transforming from a traditional defence manufacturer into a modern aerospace and defence giant. As the company continues to innovate and execute, it could remain an attractive option for long-term investors looking to capitalize on India's defence and aerospace growth. However, HAL could face some surprise challenges along the way. Dealing with the government, its primary client, can be arduous due to high receivable days and orders that are heavily reliant on defence budget allocations. Investors should evaluate the company's fundamentals, corporate governance, and valuations of the stock as key factors when conducting due diligence before making investment decisions. Happy Investing. Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such. This article is syndicated from
Express Tribune
19-02-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
F-35: Another Blow to India's LCA Tejas Program
Listen to article 'Technology delayed is technology denied,' argued Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, referring to the India's Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, stressing the need of timely technological developments. This remark underscores the prolonged delays in the LCA programme, initiated in 1984, which has delivered only 36 aircraft over four decades—averaging almost one per year. These delays have failed to compensate for the retiring fleet, leaving the IAF with only 31 fighter squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—most of which still consist of Soviet era aircraft. The addition of 36 French Rafale jets, while enhancing operational capabilities, falls short of counterbalancing growing regional air power forces. On the one hand, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates with an advanced fighter fleet that includes advanced JF-17, J-10C and F-16 aircraft. JF-17 Thunder, the backbone of the PAF, is produced at Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra and has state of the art avionics, an AESA radar, a glass cockpit, advanced electronic warfare system, HOTAS controls, and lethal BVR weaponry. In addition, PAF has made plans to induct J-31 5th gen stealth fighters to its active operations within the coming years. On the other hand, Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) continues its advancement with its operations of various advanced aircraft which now include the J-20 5th gen stealth fighter. It is predicted that J-20 fighter jet numbers will grow from today's figure of 200 to 1000 stealth aircraft by 2035. Furthermore, China is actively pursuing the development of a sixth-generation integrated space-air fighter as recently showcased in 2024 Zhuhai Airshow. In this strategic environment, India's aging fighter fleet presents major challenges in potential air conflicts, making the IAF Chief's frustration understandable. The LCA has failed to meet the IAF's operational needs on time, facing issues such as engine availability, suboptimal performance, fly-by-wire flight control system issues, and avionics integration challenges. It is evident that LCA MK-1 or MK2 cannot obtain full operational clearance by 2030 and the next version, i.e. Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will not become operational before 2035. Even at the time of Squadron induction, the question remains about whether the fourth generation LCA Mk-1A, Mk-2, or AMCA will be able to meet the operational requirements by the mid-21st Century, especially when sixth-generation stealth fighters and advanced stealth drones would be the centre of next generation aerial warfare using man-unmanned teaming. This raises a critical question: What should India do? During the February 2025 meeting between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the US announced India's potential purchase of F-35 stealth fighters. The announcement serves two purposes: first, to pressurize India into purchasing the highly expensive billion dollars F-35s (approximately USD 100 million per aircraft), and second, to dissuade India from acquiring the Su-57 from Russia, which has reportedly offered production transfer rights. Thus, acquiring the F-35 would pose a complex dilemma for India, as beyond political manoeuvring, it demands significant budget allocations and specialised bases' infrastructure. In addition, F-35 integration with the existing IAF ecosystem, comprising mainly Russian-origin equipment, would also be a major challenge. However, the greatest challenge of acquiring the F-35 would be its direct impact on India's LCA programme. Although, F-35 is a very capable 5th generation fighter; however, it is known for its high cost in purchase as well as for high 'cost per flying hour' (almost USD 42,000 per hour) and its maintenance may become a financial drain for IAF. Diverting substantial budget and resources from the indigenous LCA and AMCA programmes towards the acquisition and operation of the costly F-35 would negatively impact both India's aviation industry and the 'Make in India' initiative. Therefore, induction of F-35 would be another blow to the future of already delayed fourth generation LCA Tejas and AMCA programmes, which otherwise also necessitates a critical evaluation, especially considering their relevance in next generation operational needs of the IAF. Air Commodore Raza Haider (Retd) is Director at the Centre of Aerospace & Security Studies (CASS), Islamabad. He can be contacted at:
