HAL turns 86, reaffirms global aspirations in aerospace and defence

Bengaluru: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Monday marked 86 years of its distinguished journey in nation-building and technological excellence, reaffirming its ambition to emerge as a globally competitive aerospace and defence major.

The 86th Foundation Day celebrations were held at the New HMA campus in Bengaluru in the presence of Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Member of Parliament and Custodian of the Royal House of Mysore, along with HAL’s Board members led by Dr D K Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director, senior leadership, former CMDs and employees.

The occasion reflected HAL’s enduring legacy as the backbone of India’s aeronautical and defence ecosystem, while underscoring its forward-looking vision aligned with national priorities and global benchmarks.

As part of the celebrations, Yaduveer Wadiyar unveiled the bust of erstwhile royal Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar at the New HMA campus.

Expressing gratitude for the tribute, he recalled the historic role of the Mysore state in nurturing India’s aerospace capabilities. He highlighted that the foundation of HAL was laid by the then Maharaja at the age of 21, a visionary step that catalysed the birth of India’s aeronautical industry.

Congratulating HAL on its continued progress, he remarked: “HAL remains at the forefront of aerospace and defence. As the nation forges ahead, HAL is showing the way.”

Addressing the gathering, Dr D K Sunil outlined HAL’s ongoing transformation, driven by the adoption of advanced IT and artificial intelligence, enhanced operational excellence, capacity expansion and the establishment of a dedicated R&D centre for space technologies. Emphasising the role of leadership in institutional growth, he said, “Institutions are shaped not only by technology but by leadership that builds enduring capabilities.”

He called upon the organisation to focus on consistent execution across all domains, strengthen operational excellence and deepen indigenisation to support India’s strategic and self-reliance goals.

The Foundation Day celebrations served as a reminder of HAL’s rich heritage and its pivotal role in strengthening India’s defence preparedness, while reinforcing its resolve to scale new heights as a global aerospace and defence powerhouse.