New Delhi: The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Jasbir Singh for the post of Director (Engineering, Research & Development) at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a Schedule ‘A’ Maharatna defence public sector undertaking (PSU).
The recommendation was finalised during PESB Meeting No. 88/2026, held on November 6, 2026. The selection process involved interviews with 12 senior executives from HAL.
Who Is Jasbir Singh? Know About His Current Role at HAL
Jasbir Singh is currently serving as Executive Director at the Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre (RWR&DC), Bengaluru, which is one of HAL’s key research, design and development establishments.
The centre is responsible for the research, design and development of helicopters and other rotary-wing platforms. In his current role, Singh has been associated with HAL’s advanced rotary-wing technology development programmes.
His recommendation for the Director (Engineering, Research & Development) position places him in consideration for a key leadership role overseeing the company’s engineering and technology development activities.
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Responsibilities of HAL Director (Engineering, Research & Development)
The Director (Engineering, Research & Development) is a board-level position at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The role involves overseeing the company’s engineering, research and development activities across various aerospace and defence platforms.
These include:
- Fixed-wing aircraft, including fighter and transport aircraft.
- Rotary-wing platforms, including helicopters.
- Unmanned aerial systems.
- Advanced engineering and technology development programmes.
The position plays an important role in strengthening HAL’s research capabilities, technological development and aerospace manufacturing activities.
PESB Interviews 12 Senior HAL Executives
According to the selection details, PESB interviewed 12 senior executives from HAL before recommending Jasbir Singh for the post.
The candidates included several senior officials from different HAL divisions and research establishments. Some of the executives interviewed were:
- Arup Kumar Mallick: Executive Director, HAL Management Academy.
- Sumana Prakash: General Manager, Aircraft Research and Design Centre (ARDC).
- Dr. Abhishek Singh: Chief Designer, Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre.
- Ravindra Kumar: Chief of Projects, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
Other General Managers and Chief Designers from various HAL divisions also participated in the selection process.
What Happens Next? HAL Director Appointment Process
Following the PESB recommendation, the proposal will be processed by the Ministry of Defence. It will subsequently be placed before the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for approval and formal appointment.
The recommendation is therefore an important step in the selection process, while the final appointment remains subject to the required government approvals.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a Maharatna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Headquartered in Bengaluru, HAL is engaged in the design, development, manufacture, repair and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, engines and other aerospace and defence systems. It plays a significant role in supporting India’s defence aviation capabilities and indigenous aerospace manufacturing.
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