HAL Shares Rebound as Company Confirms Five LCA Mk1A Jets Ready for Delivery

Shares of

utics Limited (HAL) staged a notable recovery on Wednesday, climbing nearly 3% from the day's low after the defence PSU addressed concerns over delays in its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A programme. The stock opened sharply lower, plunging 6.29% to an intraday low of Rs 3,952 on the NSE amid lingering investor worries about potential slippages in deliveries. However, it pared losses significantly following HAL's clarification, trading at around Rs 4,056.50 by midday—down 3.81% but well off the session's bottom. The rebound came after HAL issued a statement on February 5 via its official X account, firmly stating that five LCA Mk1A aircraft are "fully ready for delivery" and comply with all major contracted capabilities and agreed specifications. The company emphasized this update was for the benefit of all stakeholders. "HAL confirms that five aircraft are fully ready for delivery, incorporating major contracted capabilities in accordance with the agreed specifications," the PSU said. This assurance countered recent media reports suggesting further delays beyond revised timelines, including potential misses on inductions due to pending avionics integration, certifications, and engine supplies from GE Aerospace. HAL has received five engines so far, with nine additional aircraft already built and flown—awaiting engines for final clearance. The clarification provided some relief to investors, as HAL shares had been under pressure, dropping over 9% in the prior two sessions amid broader sector concerns and delivery uncertainty for the indigenous fighter jet programme.