"HAL stands as a symbol of the nation's defence strength": Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Nashik (Maharashtra) [India], October 17 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday lauded Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for its growing contribution to India's defence self-reliance, as he attended the maiden flight of the Tejas Mk1A and inaugurated new aircraft production lines at HAL's Nashik campus.
Addressing the gathering, the Defence Minister said that it was his first visit to the Nashik facility and praised the enthusiasm of those working there. "It is my first opportunity to visit HAL's Nashik campus, and I could see enthusiasm and pride on the faces of everyone working here. I extend my best wishes to the pilots who flew the LCA Mk1A and SU-30 aircraft," he said.
Singh inaugurated HAL's third production line for the Tejas Mk1A and the second production line for the HTT-40 aircraft.
"Today marks the inauguration of HAL's third production line for the Mk1A and the second production line for the HTT-40 aircraft. Congratulations to everyone on this occasion. The land of Nashik is historic -- Lord Shiva resides here in the form of Trimbakeshwar. This land is not only one of faith and devotion but has now become a symbol of self-reliance. HAL here stands as a symbol of the nation's defence strength," Singh added.
"When I witnessed the flights of the SU-30, Mk1A, and HTT-40 today, my heart swelled with pride. This is a true example of self-reliance," he further said.
Praising the transformation of the Nashik facility, he said, "Once, this place was known for producing MiG aircraft, but today it has become a modern production hub for Sukhoi jets. HAL has played the role of a strong pillar for India."
The Defence Minister drew a symbolic connection to Nashik's spiritual heritage. Singh said the city embodies the spirit of Lord Shiva. "In this campus, one can see the spirit of Lord Shiva -- on one hand, it represents defence manufacturing, and on the other, it embodies the power to destroy enemies," he said.
LCA Mk1A is an advanced, multi-role fighter jet. The MK1A is the advanced variant of the Tejas, with improved combat avionics and air-to-air refuelling capabilities. The aircraft is a 4.5-generation multi-role fighter jet which is capable of air defence, ground attack, and maritime strike missions. (ANI)