Nashik is likely to emerge as the next hub for aircraft manufacturing in the country, as Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) is preparing to start new production lines for the indigenous light combat aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A and Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) planes. Work is being expedited to begin deliveries from Nashik to meet the Indian Air Force’s requirements for fighter jets and basic trainers.

HAL has a capacity to build 16 LCA Mk-1A every year in Bengaluru, and the Nashik line will help the firm ramp up production to a total of 24 jets. The work of installing the jigs, fixtures and other equipment has been started.

Additionally, the new plant for the Mk-1As will enable HAL to advance the deliveries of the 83 such fighters ordered by IAF for Rs 48,000 crore in February, 2021 by at least a year. 

The first assembly will take place in December 2024, and the targeted plan is to deliver three aircraft from Nashik in 2024-25 and eight every year thereafter.