Biz partners of LCA project resolve to up indigenisation

Want indigenous component quotient in the aircraft touches 80% in the next three years

The business partners working on India’s prestigious Light Combat Aircraft — a lightweight multi-role fighter jet — have decided to ensure the indigenous content of components used in the aircraft touches 80 per cent in the next three years.

At the indigenous strategic partners’ meet of LCA organised by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) here, Scientific Adviser to Defence Minister Avinash Chander said it is possible to achieve such a goal as 165 of the 344 Line Replacement Units (LRUs) are already being made in India.

In his address to the vendors yesterday, representing around 50 companies, he pointed out that LCA dream had been achieved in-spite of denial of technology, according to an HAL release. “It is clear we have capability and the government will do everything possible to strengthen the knowledge base. Even funding can be provided and national facilities (such as testing) may be shared with private players to bring down costs to create a vibrant aerospace eco-system,” he added.

HAL Chairman R K Tyagi said the production of LCA is on track with the creation of dedicated production division at HAL Bangalore. “We are aiming to roll-out 16 LCAs every year from the initial target of eight per year. Having specific business partners on such an important project has been of great help,” he added. T Suvarna Raju, Director (Design and Development, HAL) in his address said coming together of stakeholders is necessary to understand and share the knowledge since India is poised to have its own fighter aircraft comparable to the best in the world.