Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is an Indian government owned Aerospace and Defence Industry, founded by Shri Walchand Hirachand as 'Hidustan Aircraft Company' in 1940. The company was started in collaboration with Government of Mysore with the aim of manufacturing aircraft in India. The Government of India took over its operations in 1942. In 1964, Hindustan Aircraft Limited and Aeronautics India Limited merged to form 'Hindustan Aeronautics Limited' with its principal business being design, development, manufacture, repair and overhaul of aircraft, helicopter, engines and related systems like avionics, instruments and accessories. The company has produced 29 aircrafts so far, out of which 15 have been of indigenous design. It has developed various Research & Development centres across India in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kanpur, Nasik, Lucknow and Koraput. Today HAL is fully under the administrative control of Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence Production. HAL has contributed to the famous "Mars Mission" by helping develop parts for the Polar Satelitte Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C25). The company's mission is to achieve self reliance in design, development, manufacture, upgrade and maintenance of aerospace equipment diversifying into related areas.
