HAL and BAE Systems could think of working on news projects in 17 countries where BAE Systems has a presence. This was the message brought by BAE Systems Chairman, Mr. Dick Olver and Chief Executive Officer, Ian King, who HAL’s facilities in Bangalore on March 27.

HAL assembles the Hawk advanced jet trainers for the Indian Air Force and BAE Systems would naturally like to make HAL a bigger customer and also a partner. It was not specified in what manner the two companies would work on the new projects.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Olver insisted that the deep routed business relationship with HAL should go beyond Hawk to make the future even better than past. India being the second largest market for Hawk after UK, he said both the partners could think of working on new projects in 17 countries where BAE has its presence.

Dr. Tyagi said HAL would be keen to carry forward this relationship. A new business model such as Performance Based Logistics (PBL) could be an area of cooperation with HAL learning from BAE experiences. HAL and BAE Systems have been together since 40s when Tiger Moths were overhauled and the relationship strengthened through production of Jaguars in 80s and the Hawk fleet in the last 20 years, he added.

Currently HAL produces Hawk Mk. 132 under license from BAE Systems, U.K. and the first aircraft was handed over to the Indian Air Force in August 2008. The Hawk Mk 132 is an advanced jet trainer with tandem duel seats meant to provide advanced flying and weapons training.