Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has appointed Dr. D K Sunil as its new Chairman and Managing Director. Effective from September 1, 2024, Dr. Sunil will lead the company until his superannuation on April 30, 2026. This appointment was formalized by the Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence Production, Government of India.
Dr. Sunil, who has been with HAL since 1987, previously held the position of Director of Engineering and R&D. His career at HAL spans 37 years, with extensive contributions to design, production, and customer support. Notable accomplishments during his tenure include the development of cutting-edge technologies like the High Power Radar Power Supply, Voice Activated Control System, and Combined Interrogator Transponder, all of which have expanded HAL’s capabilities.
In his leadership role, Dr. Sunil has forged key partnerships with premier institutions like IIT Kanpur and IIIT Hyderabad, enhancing HAL’s technological edge in datalinks and voice recognition systems. He was instrumental in projects such as the Active Electronically Scanned Array (ESA) Radar and the Automatic Flight Control System for Light Combat Helicopters (LCH).
Dr. Sunil’s expertise has been recognized with his appointment to the DGCA External Expert Committee for the certification of the Hindustan-Dornier 228 Aircraft. Under his guidance, HAL achieved critical milestones, including securing military certification for the HTT 40 aircraft and initiating pivotal projects like the Indigenous Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) for the Indian Air Force and the Utility Helicopter Maritime (UHM) for the Indian Navy.
Dr. Sunil holds a degree in Electronics & Communication Engineering from Osmania University, an M.Tech in Aircraft Production Engineering from IIT Madras, and a Ph.D. in Electronics Science from the University of Hyderabad. His leadership is expected to steer HAL towards continued innovation and growth in the defense sector.