HAL Koraput Division Marks 2,000th Aero-Engine Delivery, Boosts Indigenous Capabilities

HAL Koraput Division Marks 2,000th Aero-Engine Delivery, Boosts Indigenous Capabilities

The HAL Koraput Division has achieved a significant milestone in India's aerospace journey by delivering its 2,000th aero-engine. This achievement was marked by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, who witnessed the delivery and announced the establishment of a second production line for Shakti engines.

The new production line is expected to enhance indigenous capabilities, ensuring reliable propulsion for advanced airframes and military preparedness through precision manufacturing and stringent quality assurance. The Raksha Mantri highlighted the importance of mastering propulsion technology for self-reliance in the aerospace and defence sector.

HAL Koraput's contribution to military aviation is substantial, with its engines powering frontline aircraft such as the MiG-21, MiG-27, MiG-29, and Su-30MKI. The division's indigenous repair and overhaul capability has also been praised, with over 9,000 engines overhauled so far.

The Raksha Mantri emphasized the need for expertise in precision manufacturing, advanced materials, metallurgy, cooling technologies, testing, and stringent quality assurance. He noted that aero-engine technology combines advanced superalloys, thermal-barrier coatings, and sophisticated cooling systems for reliable performance under extreme conditions.

The proposed investment of around Rs 5,000 crore for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme is expected to boost indigenous aero-engine capability. The establishment of India's first indigenous high-thrust engine testing facility is also a significant step towards self-reliance in the aerospace sector.

HAL's performance in meeting Defence Forces' requirements has been impressive, with the delivery of 63 AL-31FP engines against a target of 60 by the end of the second year. The Raksha Mantri announced that HAL is enhancing annual AL-31FP production capacity from 30 to 50 engines with an investment of Rs 335 crore.

A second Shakti engine production line with an investment of Rs 218 crore is also being established. The new line will manufacture up to 100 engines annually and is scheduled to be fully established by 2028-29, catering to indigenous helicopters including Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Prachand Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).

The Raksha Mantri emphasized the need for reliable indigenous propulsion for India's helicopter ecosystem. He noted that aero-engine development is a long-term endeavour requiring sustained investment, specialised testing, skilled manpower, and a strong industrial ecosystem.

The HAL Koraput Division is expected to play a crucial role in developing a broader aerospace propulsion ecosystem. The division is being encouraged to develop suppliers, mentor MSMEs, support start-ups, and collaborate with universities and research institutions.

Odisha's growing importance in the defence and aerospace ecosystem was also highlighted by the Raksha Mantri. The State's strategic location, long coastline, ports, mineral resources, industrial infrastructure, and skilled manpower make it an ideal location for growth of the aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The approval for an Aerospace and Defence Equipment Manufacturing Complex at Gajamara, Dhenkanal, is a significant step towards developing Odisha's aerospace and defence sector. HAL is expected to develop Koraput as a nucleus of a broader aerospace propulsion ecosystem, developing suppliers, mentoring MSMEs, supporting start-ups, and collaborating with universities and research institutions.

In conclusion, the HAL Koraput Division's achievement of 2,000th aero-engine delivery marks a significant milestone in India's aerospace journey. The establishment of a second production line for Shakti engines and the enhancement of indigenous capabilities will ensure reliable propulsion for advanced airframes and military preparedness. The development of a broader aerospace propulsion ecosystem in Odisha will also contribute to the growth of the aerospace and defence sector in India.