In a significant stride towards self-reliance in defence (Aatmanirbharta), the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a major contract worth over Rs 26,000 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for 240 AL-31FP Aero Engines. These engines will power the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI aircraft. This move not only strengthens India’s defence capabilities but also promotes the indigenous defence manufacturing sector, contributing to the broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

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UPSC Pointers

  • AL-31FP Aero Engine:
    • A high-performance turbofan engine used in the Su-30MKI fighter jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
    • Key in maintaining the operational strength of the IAF.
  • Su-30MKI Aircraft:
    • A multirole air superiority fighter developed by Russia’s Sukhoi and built under license by HAL for the IAF.
    • Core component of India’s aerial defence.
  • Ministry of Defence (MoD):
    • Signed a Rs 26,000 crore contract with HAL to manufacture 240 AL-31FP engines for the Su-30MKI.
    • Part of India’s push towards defence self-reliance.
  • Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
    • A leading Indian aerospace and defence company responsible for the production of these engines.
    • HAL’s Koraput Division will manufacture the engines, with the goal of increasing indigenous content to 63%.
  • Indigenisation in Defence:
    • HAL to involve MSMEs and public/private industries to meet the engine production targets.
    • Indigenisation content of repair and overhaul tasks to exceed 54%, with plans for further growth.
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat:
    • This contract aligns with the government’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector by reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and boosting the local defence ecosystem.

Key Points for UPSC Mains Analysis

  • Defence Preparedness:
    • The deal ensures the long-term operational sustainability of India’s Su-30 fleet, which is essential for national security.
    • The contract’s eight-year timeline, with HAL delivering 30 engines per annum, highlights the strategic planning involved.
  • Role of MSMEs and Private Sector:
    • This initiative demonstrates the increasing role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, promoting job creation and innovation.
  • Technological Advancements in Defence Manufacturing:
    • HAL’s commitment to enhancing indigenisation underlines India’s evolving capabilities in defence technology and the importance of reducing foreign dependence.
    • The project also enhances India’s expertise in the Repair and Overhaul (ROH) of advanced defence equipment.

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Conclusion

The contract between the Ministry of Defence and HAL for 240 AL-31FP Aero Engines represents a significant leap towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector. This move not only strengthens India’s aerial defence but also fosters a thriving indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem. The involvement of MSMEs and increased indigenisation content are key steps in making India a global hub for defence production and maintenance. This deal is a cornerstone for sustaining India’s long-term defence capabilities, ensuring the operational readiness of the Su-30MKI fleet.