The Worldonomics Times | PSU & Leadership News
New Delhi, November 11, 2026: The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Shri Jasbir Singh for appointment as Director (Engineering, Research & Development) at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Maharatna defence public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence.
The recommendation was finalised during PESB Meeting No. 88/2026, held on November 6, 2026. Jasbir Singh is currently serving as Executive Director at HAL’s Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre (RWR&DC), Bengaluru.
His selection marks an important leadership development at HAL, particularly at a time when India is strengthening its indigenous aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities.
Jasbir Singh Selected After Interviews with 12 Candidates
The PESB selection committee interviewed 12 senior executives from HAL for the prestigious board-level position.
The candidates included senior officials representing various divisions and research establishments of HAL, including the Aircraft Research and Design Centre, Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre, Light Combat Aircraft programme and other manufacturing and engineering divisions.
Jasbir Singh was recommended following the selection process.
Professional Role at HAL
Jasbir Singh is presently associated with HAL’s Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre in Bengaluru as its Executive Director.
The RWR&DC is one of HAL’s important research and design establishments, responsible for the development of helicopters and other rotary-wing platforms.
The centre contributes to India’s indigenous helicopter development capabilities and supports technological advancement in military and civil aviation.
His recommendation for the Director (Engineering, Research & Development) position reflects the importance of engineering leadership and research capabilities in HAL’s future growth.
Key Responsibilities of Director (Engineering, Research & Development)
The Director (Engineering, Research & Development) is a board-level position responsible for providing strategic direction to HAL’s engineering, research and technology development activities.
The position plays a significant role in:
- Strengthening indigenous aerospace research and development.
- Advancing fighter aircraft and transport aircraft technologies.
- Developing next-generation helicopters and rotary-wing platforms.
- Promoting unmanned aerial systems and advanced aviation technologies.
- Improving design, engineering and product development capabilities.
- Supporting India’s defence indigenisation and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
The role is strategically important as HAL continues to contribute to India’s defence preparedness and aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
Appointment Subject to ACC Approval
Following the PESB recommendation, the proposal will be processed through the prescribed government approval mechanism, including consideration by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
It is important to note that a PESB recommendation does not constitute a final appointment. The appointment will become formal only after the necessary government approvals and completion of prescribed formalities.
The position is expected to become vacant following the completion of the tenure of incumbent Ajay Kumar Shrivastava on November 30, 2026.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
Headquartered in Bengaluru, HAL is engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, repair and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, aero-engines and other aerospace and defence systems.
The company plays a crucial role in India’s defence aviation sector and supports the government’s objective of strengthening domestic defence production and reducing dependence on imports.
Significance of the Leadership Recommendation
The recommendation of Jasbir Singh for the Director (Engineering, Research & Development) position is significant for HAL’s future technology and innovation roadmap.
With growing emphasis on indigenous aircraft development, advanced helicopter programmes and defence modernisation, strong engineering leadership will remain essential for the company’s long-term strategic objectives.
