During static testing, an engine is operated on a secured test installation so engineers can evaluate its behaviour without installing it in a flying platform. Such trials can generate data on thrust, fuel delivery, operating temperatures, vibration, stability and other propulsion parameters required before progressing towards integrated aircraft testing.
The visitors also reviewed India’s broader progress in aerospace manufacturing and expressed interest in HAL’s indigenous systems. HAL did not publicly identify any specific aircraft or helicopter that was the subject of procurement discussions during the visit.
The National Institute of Oceanography is one of India’s principal institutions for ocean research and marine science. Its work covers physical, chemical, biological and geological oceanography as well as marine instrumentation and ocean engineering.
The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) on 23 September 2026 for the procurement of 160 SAT-SAAW systems and associated equipment for the Indian Air Force. The contract, valued at ₹810.79 crore, was placed under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category.
The company’s expertise in radio frequency (RF) systems, microwave electronics and defence sensors provides a strong foundation for developing advanced counter-drone solutions. Astra Microwave has highlighted its capabilities in areas such as counter-UAV radars and electronic warfare technologies, which form critical components of layered drone defence networks.
The proposed system is expected to have a capacity of approximately 20.64 MWh with a rated voltage range of around 740–800 VDC. The development scope includes battery cell technology, module design, battery pack integration, Battery Management System development, thermal management solutions, prototype qualification and supply of production-standard systems.
The delegation witnessed the production infrastructure behind the Light Combat Aircraft programme, including aircraft assembly processes, advanced manufacturing facilities and technologies supporting India’s indigenous fighter aircraft ecosystem.
The Defence Secretary stated that French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation has agreed to integrate Indian weapons into the Rafale aircraft being considered under the new procurement programme. Similar integration provisions were also included in the agreement for the Indian Navy’s Rafale Marine aircraft.
The proposed facility is part of the companies’ plan to establish a local aerospace manufacturing ecosystem around the C-390 programme, which is being offered to the Indian Air Force under its Medium Transport Aircraft requirement. The project remains dependent on the aircraft being selected by India.
HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K has confirmed that the front, centre and rear fuselage sections of the first Tejas Mk2 prototype have been joined, completing the main structural assembly of the aircraft.
