Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently praised Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for its indispensable role in strengthening India’s defence capabilities and advancing self-reliance. During the inauguration of new production lines at HAL’s Nashik campus on October 16, 2025, Singh highlighted HAL’s crucial 24/7 maintenance support to the Indian Air Force (IAF) during Operation Sindoor in May, which ensured fighter jets and helicopters were combat-ready. He also noted HAL’s success in integrating the BrahMos missile with Sukhoi Su-30MKI jets, which were instrumental in striking terrorist hideouts during the operation. Singh emphasized India’s current 65% defence manufacturing self-reliance with a strong commitment to achieving 100%. The new production lines at Nashik will boost the annual output of the TEJAS MK-1A fighter aircraft, underscoring HAL’s pivotal role in India’s strategic autonomy and defence manufacturing ecosystem.