Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is contemplating developing aero-engines with the help of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and BHEL.
“A platform for collaborative promotion and development of new and emerging technologies in the field of aerospace is being prepared,” Dr R K Tyagi, Chairman HAL said.
The aero-engine needs are to be anchored around the technology roadmap of Indian Air Force (IAF).
Dr Tyagi said, “IAF and HAL are conjoined twins and they will continue to complement each other in India’s Defence preparedness.”
Earlier, speaking at the Eighth LM Katre memorial lecture, organised jointly by Air Force Association, Karnataka Branch, HAL and Aeronautical Society of India, HAL Chairman said, “More than 70 per cent of manufacturing needs of IAF is done by HAL.”
“Our latest partnership is in projects like LCA and ALH,,” he added. Talking about HAL, Tyagi said technology is a game-changer and HAL is gearing up to emerge itself as technology driven company.
Research and development“We have taken several measures on research and development (R&D) such as ensuring funds to the tune of 10 per cent of profits, registering patents (430 plus at present) to protect intellectual property,” he explained.
According to Tyagi, at HAL, a blue print is in place for creation of new divisions, modernisation and upgradation of the existing plants, providing increased thrust to indigenous technology development, productivity and quality improvements to meet the challenge.
Chief of the Air Staff and Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha who spoke on ‘National Security and Aerospace Power’ said that if the air-power characterised the military strength in the 20th century, the 21st century would be remembered for aerospace power.