Amid reports that the state-owned aerospace and defence major Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) is not in the race for India's fifth-generation fighter jet programme, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the company has attempted to clear the air on such reports, saying there was no written official communication about the firms being shortlisted in the screening process.
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Chairman and Managing Director of HAL D.K. Sunil has been quoted as saying that the RFI (Request for Information) for AMCA that is currently on is for building prototypes, and even if HAL is not in the race for building the prototype, it will certainly be in the race for building the fighter jet during the production phase.
CNBC TV18 quoted him as saying, "Because we have the plants, we have the capability, and at that point of time, we will also pitch in. This has perhaps been a misreading that we will not be in the AMCA."
According to an Indian Express report, Sunil said even if one were to assume that HAL was not shortlisted for the initial screening for building the prototypes, the company will bid when fresh tenders are floated for license manufacturing of the fifth-generation fighter jet.
“In case HAL is not shortlisted for building AMCA prototypes, it does not mean that it will not be part of the AMCA programme when manufacturing starts around 2035. Not participating in stage 1 does not mean we can’t participate in stage 2,” Indian Express quoted him as saying.
A few days ago, HAL issued a statement saying media reports regarding the AMCA programme have come to its attention, and that "HAL has not received any official communication in this regard and, therefore, is not in a position to comment on these reports at this stage. HAL is committed to keeping all stakeholders fully informed of all developments."
In what was an attempt to assuge investor sentiments, the company had said it has a robust confirmed order book, providing strong revenue visibility, and a healthy production and execution pipeline extending up to 2032.
"HAL is simultaneously advancing multiple strategic programmes, including the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH), LCA Mk2, and Combat Air Teaming System (CATS), which will further strengthen its technological capabilities and long-term growth prospects. These programmes are expected to enter production post-2032.
HAL is also diversifying its portfolio in the civil aviation segment with platforms such as the Dhruv NG, Hindustan 228 and the SJ 100, which will enhance revenue and provide sustainable growth in the future," the statement from the company had said.
