Delivery of Light Combat Aircraft scheduled in 12th Plan period: Defence Minister A K Antony

NEW DELHI: The development of Light Combat Aircraft ( LCA) for its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) is in progress and the delivery of the plane is scheduled to take place in the 12th Plan period, the government told the Rajya Sabha today.

In a written reply to the House, Defence Minister A K Antony said, "LCA development activities leading to Final Operational Clearance are in progress... The deliveries of Tejas aircraft are scheduled in the 12th plan period."

Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is the nodal organisation for the development of Tejas and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the production agency, he said.

On ways to strengthen HAL, he said the agency has established ten research and development centres in order to have focus on design and development activities in the field of aeronautics and the investment in R&D has increased from Rs 662 crores in 2007-08 to Rs 853 crores in 2011-12.

"A systematic approach has been adopted for upgradation of infrastructure and technology with participation of private sector. So far ten joint venture companies have been established," Antony said.

He told the House that an expert group has been set up under the Chairmanship of B K Chaturvedi, Member, Planning Commission, to suggest measures to enhance the synergy among HAL, the private sector and the civil industry.