Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first AL-31FP Aero Engine, manufactured under the 240-engine contract, to the Indian Air Force on Monday at Koraput, Odisha. The contract for 240 AL-31FP Aero Engines for Su-30MKI aircraft was signed with HAL last month on 9th September. These engines will be delivered over the course of eight years, according to HAL statement.
Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary of Defence Production, commended HAL for delivering the first engine within two weeks of signing the contract. He stated, “This significant achievement demonstrates HAL’s expertise in aero engine manufacturing and commitment to supporting the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet. It is very encouraging to see that the Koraput Division has mastered cutting-edge technologies in aero engine manufacturing and has established the necessary infrastructure to compete with global OEMs. I am confident that the Division will not only serve the IAF but will also play a larger role in exporting to global customers.” He also encouraged the employees of Koraput to focus on self-reliance efforts and adopt Quality 4.0 processes.
HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director, D K Sunil, stated that HAL is committed to delivering 240 engines on time. The Koraput Division will proactively procure materials and work towards increasing capacity to meet the expectations of the Indian Air Force. The government has envisioned Atmanirbharta to establish a vibrant ecosystem in the aerospace and defence sectors. Throughout the engine manufacturing process, we aim to increase the involvement of Indian industries from the current 40% to over 50% in the next 2-3 years, contributing to employment generation.”
Sukhoi Engine Division, Koraput, is a state-of-the-art Division created by HAL to manufacture engines for Su-30MKI aircraft from the raw material stage to the final engine. Air Vice Marshal K Harisankar of the IAF appreciated the strong commitment, significant contribution, and resilience of the Koraput Division and its workforce over the years in supporting the MiG-21, MiG-29, and Su-30MKI fleets of the Indian Air Force.
Team BharatShakti
