Bangalore, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), the public sector major into the manufacturing of military aircraft and helicopters, is expected to soon begin work on civil aircraft.

Defence minister A K Antony hinted that the plan to manufacture civil aircraft by HAL was currently being considered. HAL’s proposed civil aircraft would be indigenous in design. He, however, did not rule out the possibility of a foreign tie-up in other areas. He was speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of its avionics division’s strategic equipment unit at Seethangoli in Kasaragod.

Pointing out that HAL was going strong with the public sector player currently bagging orders to the tune of Rs 15,000 crore, he added that the export orders had come in from countries such as Turkey, Peru and Ecuador. More orders are expected from Bolivia and other nations.

The first phase of the Seethangoli facility is expected to be ready in 18 months. The factory is coming up in the Kinfra Industrial Park on 200 acres at an investment of Rs 200 crore. It will manufacture equipment including communication radar, navigation computers and electronic warfare tools. Besides, the factory will produce strategic equipment to be used in Armed forces aircraft and helicopters.

A senior state industries department official said of the total Rs 200 crore being invested, Rs 90 crore will be spent in the first phase.

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