HAL expands aero-engine production capacity with second Shakti line

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is moving to bolster India's indigenous aero-engine manufacturing capabilities by setting up a second Shakti engine production line at its Koraput facility in Odisha. The new production facility will require an investment of ₹218 crore and is designed to increase the company's capacity to meet rising requirements from military helicopter platforms.

The Shakti engine, developed indigenously, powers several key helicopter platforms in India's defence inventory. The expanded production line will cater to engines required for the Dhruv advanced light helicopter and the Prachand combat helicopter, both critical platforms in the Indian armed forces' modernisation plans.

The capacity addition comes as India accelerates its focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing, particularly in high-technology segments such as aero-engines. HAL's move to establish a second production line reflects the growing domestic demand for rotorcraft engines as the armed forces expand their helicopter fleets.

The Koraput facility has established itself as a key manufacturing hub for defence aerospace products. The new Shakti engine line will complement existing production capabilities and strengthen India's position in indigenous helicopter engine manufacture, reducing dependence on imports for critical military platforms.