Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first AL-31FP Aero Engine manufactured under 240 engine contract to IAF yesterday at Koraput in the presence of Mr Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production) and Dr. D K Sunil, CMD (HAL).

Mr Saket Chaturvedi, CEO (MiG Complex) handed over the first aero engine for Sukhoi-30MKI fighter to Air Vice Marshal, K Harisankar of IAF. Mr R B Nagaraja, ADG AQA (Koraput) handed over the document to IAF. The contract for 240 AL-31FP Aero Engines for Su-30MKI aircraft was signed with HAL on September 9, 2024 and these engines would be delivered in eight years.

Mr Sanjeev Kumar lauded HAL's efforts in delivering the first engine within two weeks of signing the contract. "This key milestone reflects HAL's aero engine manufacturing competency and dedication to support Su-30MKI fleet of IAF. It is very heartening to see that Koraput Division has mastered cutting edge technologies of aero engine manufacturing and has set up required infrastructure to match with the global OEMs. I am confident that the Division will not only serve IAF but will also play a bigger role in exporting to global customers”, he said. He also motivated the employees of Koraput to focus on self-reliance efforts and adopt Quality 4.0 processes.

Dr. Sunil in his inaugural address said, "HAL is committed to timely delivery of 240 engines. Koraput Division will proactively procure material as well as work towards capacity enhancement to meet IAF's expectations. The Government has envisioned Atmanirbharta to build a vibrant eco-system in Aerospace and Defence. During this entire engine manufacturing process, we aim to engage Indian industries from present level of work share from 40% to more than 50% in next 2-3 years and help in employment generation. With the support and guidance from the Ministry of Defence, we will strive to achieve Atmanirbharta in Defence and propel HAL towards Viksit Bharat".

AVM Harisankar appreciated the strong commitment, significant contribution and resilience of Koraput Division and its workforce over the years in supporting the MiG-21, MiG-29 and the Su-30MKI fleet of IAF. Mr. A B Pradhan, Director (HR & Finance) said that HAL's focus is on capacity and capability building to meet the commitments of its customers.

Sukhoi Engine Division, Koraput is a state-of-the-art Division created by HAL for manufacture of engines of Su-30MKI aircraft from raw material stage to final engine. Mr. S M Jena, Executive Director (Koraput) and other senior officials of HAL, DGAQA, RCMA, IAF and Odisha Govt were present on the occasion.