India Boosts Defence Manufacturing With New LCA Mk1A And HTT-40 Production Lines

India accelerates defence self-reliance

In a major push toward indigenous defence manufacturing, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated two new production lines at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Nashik. The third production line for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A and the second for the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) were officially launched on October 17, 2025.

The minister also flagged off the first LCA Mk1A aircraft produced at the new facility, calling it a “shining symbol of India’s growing Aatmanirbharta in defence.”

Boosting production capacity and strategic readiness

The new production lines are expected to significantly enhance HAL’s manufacturing capacity. With the third LCA Mk1A line, HAL can now produce up to 24 Tejas aircraft annually. This expansion is crucial for meeting the Indian Air Force’s growing demand for indigenous fighter jets and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

The HTT-40 trainer aircraft, designed for basic pilot training, will also see faster delivery timelines with the second production line now operational.

Key highlights from the inauguration

- Inauguration held on October 17, 2025, at HAL Nashik  
- Third production line for LCA Tejas Mk1A launched  
- Second production line for HTT-40 trainer aircraft opened  
- First LCA Mk1A aircraft from the new line flagged off  
- HAL’s annual Tejas production capacity now at 24 aircraft  
- Initiative aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat and defence modernization goals  

Strategic implications for India’s defence sector

Rajnath Singh highlighted that India, which once imported 65–70% of its defence equipment, now manufactures 65% domestically. The government aims to push this figure to 100% in the coming years. The new production lines are a step toward that vision, enhancing India’s strategic autonomy and export potential.

The move also reflects the transformation of India’s defence sector over the past decade, driven by policy reforms, public-private partnerships, and a focus on innovation.

Sources: MSN News, The Week, Indian Express