Delivering LCA Mk-1A key, not countering criticism: HAL chief

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) chief DK Sunil on Monday said that the state-run aircraft maker's focus is on delivering the new light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) to the Indian Air Force at the earliest rather than spending time on countering criticism of the indigenous programme, which is running behind schedule due to several reasons including delay in the supply of engines by US firm GE Aerospace.

- Rahul Singh

NEW DELHI:

His comments came a week after the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, questioned the firm's ability to meet the air force's critical requirements in the backdrop of a lingering delay in the supply of the new fighter jets, saying he had "no confidence" in the plane maker. Singh's remarks came during the air show, Aero India 2025, held in Bengaluru last week.

"Our focus is not on getting into a debate on this. I'd rather channelise the energy of my teams on delivering the aircraft. 'Tu tu main main se kuch nahin hoga' (squabbling will not serve any purpose)," Sunil said.

The IAF chief also tore into HAL for calling the aircraft the firm showcased at the five-day airshow "LCA Mk-1A" without upgrading its capabilities.

"Everything is [driven by] 'ho jayega (will happen) and 'karenge' (we will do it)... You (have started) calling it Mk-1A. It is not Mk-1A. Mk-1A is only after the capability comes in, not just by change of one software to other software. When the weapon comes in, when the capability comes in, then it is Mk-1A. 'Mazza nahin aa raha hain' (it's not working out)," Singh said on February 10 in an interaction with HAL officials that was recorded by someone.

Sunil said the IAF chief's concern likely stems from the declining number of fighter squadrons and the air force would like to get the Mk-1A as quickly as possible.