Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to have a new head when the current Chairman and D D.K. Sunil superannuates in April.
According to media reports, the the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has chosen Ravi Kota, known as "LCA Man", who is currently the Director (Operations), HAL, for the role.
For more defence news, views and updates, visit: Fortress India
He was chosen from among eight candidates, and due process for the appointment is currently underway.
Ravi K is a Mechanical Engineering Graduate and an alumnus of IIM, Ahmedabad & IAS, Toulouse, France. He has over three decades of experience in various sectors.
Ravi Kota is responsible for the formulation of strategic and functional plans for HAL and for optimising the capacities, upgradation of capabilities within the state-run company, while also ensuring indigenisation and implementation of a robust IT framework.
ALSO READ: Russia in 'advanced talks' with India for joint Su-57E fighter jet production: Official
He has a varied experience in various facets of fixed wing business of HAL and was responsible for the operationalisation of LCA Tejas fleet in the Indian Air Force.
Ravi Kota led a team to conclude the biggest-ever contract in the Indian defence sector for supplying 83 LCA Mk1A in 2021 and also worked with IAF for an additional 97 LCA Mk1A order.
He played a key role in establishing the facilities and creating capacity for the manufacturing of 16 LCA per year, and was responsible for the delivery of LCA twin-seater aircraft for the first time in the programme.
Besides, he also led an indigenisation team to boost the local content in the LCA programme and transformed the LCA Division to be a lead integrator by successfully outsourcing the major fuselage assemblies to private partners, according to HAL.
"As Executive Director & General Manager of LCA Tejas Division, he was Instrumental in increasing the fleet serviceability through various innovative initiatives and established seamless data communication with IAF bases with Single point of contact (SPOC) concept for all customer issues," his bio in the company website reads.
Ravi Kota takes over HAL at a time when the IAF has expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in the delivery of LCA Tejas to the force.
