Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
India’s Light Combat Aircraft LCA Tejas Mk1A Maiden Flight: Nashik, October 17, 2025: In a significant step towards advancing India’s self-reliance in defence, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third production line for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A and the second production line for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Nashik on October 17, 2025. The event also marked the flagging off of the first LCA Mk1A produced at the facility.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Defence Minister described the successful production of the LCA Mk1A as a symbol of India’s growing “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) in defence. He lauded the rapid transformation of the defence sector in India over the last decade, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the country which once imported the majority of its critical military hardware is now manufacturing 65% of its defence equipment domestically.
“When we assumed office in 2014, India faced several challenges, especially in terms of defence preparedness and dependence on imports. Today, we are not only reducing import dependency but are actively enhancing indigenisation. Everything from fighter aircraft to missiles and electronic warfare systems, which we once relied on foreign sources for, is now being manufactured in India,” said the Defence Minister.
READ: UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave 2025 Renews Commitment to Strengthen UN Peacekeeping
A Surge in Defence Manufacturing and Exports
Highlighting the strides made in defence production, Rajnath Singh pointed out that India’s annual defence production, valued at ₹46,429 crore in 2014-15, had surged to over ₹1.50 lakh crore by 2024-25. Exports, too, had seen a remarkable rise, touching an all-time high of ₹25,000 crore from less than ₹1,000 crore a decade ago. He also set an ambitious target to increase defence manufacturing to ₹3 lakh crore and exports to ₹50,000 crore by 2029.
The Defence Minister also underscored the importance of staying ahead of the curve in modern warfare, as the rise of artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, drones, and next-generation aircraft are reshaping global conflicts. “India must remain at the forefront of this new race, not lagging behind,” he said, urging HAL to extend its expertise to unmanned systems and civil aviation, alongside its focus on the LCA Tejas and HTT-40.
HAL’s Role in Operation Sindoor and National Security
The Defence Minister commended HAL for its exceptional support during Operation Sindoor, a mission that tested India’s military strength and resolve. HAL’s constant operational support ensured the Indian Air Force (IAF) remained ready by carrying out timely maintenance on fighter jets and helicopters. The Nashik team also played a pivotal role in integrating the BrahMos missile on the Su-30 aircraft, which was instrumental in destroying terrorist hideouts.
“Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has long been the backbone of India’s defence sector. The support HAL provided during Operation Sindoor was a testament to its capability and dedication to the nation’s security,” said Rajnath Singh, adding that HAL’s role was integral to the success of indigenous platforms.
Tejas Mk1A.
Production Lines Marking a New Era for HAL
The inauguration of the new production lines at HAL Nashik is a critical milestone in the country’s journey towards enhanced defence manufacturing capabilities. The third LCA Mk1A production line, established in a record time of two years, has been equipped with over 30 assembly jigs for all major aircraft modules and has the capacity to produce up to eight aircraft per year. With this new line, HAL is now on track to produce 24 aircraft annually.
The second HTT-40 production line at Nashik, which focuses on the assembly of critical aircraft components such as fuselages and wings, will significantly enhance the production capacity of the trainer aircraft. These initiatives not only bolster India’s defence preparedness but also contribute to the country’s growing export potential in aerospace technologies.
A Thriving Ecosystem and Future Prospects
Rajnath Singh also praised HAL Nashik for its role in driving India’s defence manufacturing forward over the last six decades. From the production and overhaul of MiG-21 and MiG-27 to becoming the assembly hub for the Su-30, HAL Nashik has been instrumental in strengthening India’s aerospace capabilities. The division, which has produced more than 900 aircraft and overhauled 1,900, continues to be a key player in the production of advanced fighter jets and defence systems.
The establishment of the new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility at Nashik will not only boost HAL’s production capacity but also create numerous employment opportunities in the region. The facility, designed to support both civil and military aviation, represents HAL’s ongoing commitment to creating a sustainable and innovative aerospace ecosystem.
In addition, the HAL Nashik campus, now fully digital and paperless, is a prime example of New India’s technological leap, with its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge manufacturing processes.
READ: UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave 2025 Renews Commitment to Strengthen UN Peacekeeping
Strengthening India’s Aerospace Ecosystem
Speaking at the event, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar lauded the inauguration of the new production lines, describing it as a testament to India’s growing technological confidence and industrial strength. He noted that the LCA Tejas Mk1, which is designed, developed, and produced indigenously, symbolises India’s excellence in defence manufacturing. The HTT-40, another indigenous product, further reinforces HAL’s ability to deliver critical defence platforms.
HAL’s CMD, Dr. DK Sunil, highlighted the successful operationalisation of the LCA Mk1A and HTT-40 production lines as proof of HAL’s capacity to expand and meet delivery timelines. He also pointed out that the initiative had led to the creation of 1,000 new jobs and the development of over 40 industry partners in Nashik, contributing to the government’s goal of fostering effective public-private partnerships in the defence sector.
The ceremony also featured a spectacular aerial display, with HAL Chief Test Pilot Group Capt. KK Venugopal (Retd) piloting the Tejas Mk1A. The Tejas Mk1A was greeted with a water cannon salute, marking the occasion as a significant achievement in India’s defence history.
READ: IAI’s NeuSPHERE Demo Day: Indian Deep-Tech Startups Showcase Groundbreaking Solutions
HAL’s Nashik Facility
Established in 1964 for the license manufacture of MiG-21 fighter aircraft, HAL Nashik has grown into a world-class facility with capabilities in aircraft manufacturing, overhaul, and design. With more than 900 aircraft produced and over 1,900 military aircraft overhauled, the division continues to play a pivotal role in equipping India’s defence forces with advanced technology and equipment.
As India moves forward in its quest for self-reliance in defence, HAL Nashik remains at the heart of the country’s aerospace ambitions, pushing the boundaries of innovation and strengthening national security.
READ: Video: India Responds to Swiss Criticism in the United Nations
