HAL stated that it cannot reply to or remark on all these reports one-on-one due to the sensitive nature of Defence issues and products.
Bengaluru: Defence public sector undertaking Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has strongly denounced a wave of “speculative stories with malicious intentions” being circulated across various media platforms in the wake of the tragic Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) crash involving the Indian Coast Guard in January.
In a formal statement issued recently, HAL emphasized that the reports—authored by self-proclaimed defence analysts, retired military personnel, and online commentators—present one-sided and biased narratives, often ignoring the company’s perspective entirely.
“Inaccurate and Outdated” Claims, Says HAL
“These stories are written without offering HAL’s perspective and contain inaccuracies, outdated issues, and misleading interpretations,” the statement said. HAL further pointed out that it has resolved many of the concerns raised in the reports through collaborative engagement with its clients, including the Indian Air Force and other defence branches.
The company also explained that it cannot respond individually to each report, given the sensitive nature of defence projects and aeronautics systems.
Damage to Stakeholder Trust a Concern
HAL issued the public statement out of concern for its stakeholders, warning that continued propagation of unverified and speculative content could damage public trust and stakeholder confidence in the organisation.
“Such stories are detrimental to the interests of HAL and its stakeholders,” it added.
Ongoing Investigation Into ALH Crash
The Indian Coast Guard’s ALH MK-III Dhruv helicopter tragically crashed during a routine training sortie at Porbandar airport in Gujarat, resulting in the deaths of three crew members—two pilots and one aircrew technician. A Board of Inquiry was set up to probe the incident.
Commitment to Operational Excellence
Reiterating its commitment to national defence, HAL stated it is actively working alongside all its clients, including the Indian Air Force, to manage and resolve critical challenges involved in complex defence aviation platforms.
As the Board of Inquiry continues its investigation into the Porbandar crash, HAL has called for responsible journalism and discourse, urging media outlets and defence commentators to avoid misleading narratives that could jeopardize national interests and defence industry integrity.
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