Tejas veteran steps into to job at HAL

Ravi K aims to boost innovation at state airframer.

A veteran of the Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) Tejas Light Combat Aircraft programme has been tapped as the company’s new leader.

Ravi K has assumed the role of HAL’s chairman and managing director following the retirement of DK Sunil, according to the company.

“My vision is to transform HAL into a globally competitive aerospace and defence enterprise, driven by innovation, artificial intelligence, operational excellence, and people,” says Ravi K.

During his career at HAL Ravi K has held several roles, including leading the the Tejas fighter programme, concluding sales of 180 examples to the Indian air force. He was also instrumental in the sale of 156 Light Combat Helicopters to the army and air force.

In addition to aircraft sales, HAL says that he helped improve aircraft serviceability and improved communications with HAL’s customers, as well as improving the company’s production capabilities through outsourcing.

HAL recently announced that its orderbook stands at INR2.54 trillion ($26.3 billion), up from INR1.9 trillion a year earlier, largely owing to an INR624 billion defence ministry order for 97 Mk1A Tejas fighters.