Detailed Narrative
Order Book Doubles But Execution Challenges Persist
Order book nearly doubled to Rs 1,89,300 crores with Rs 1,02,337 crores new manufacturing orders (156 LCH Prachand Rs 62,777 crores being the largest single order). However, actual platform deliveries dropped to ~14-15 units due to GE engine supply issues and ALH grounding. Revenue grew only 2% reported (7.25% adjusted for prior year one-off📎s).
GE Engine Supply Chain Resolution
GE overcame COVID-era supply chain issues with sub-vendors re-certifying. First engine delivered April 2025, fitted and tested successfully. GE committed to 12 engines in CY2025. Management expects ~2 engines/month going forward⏳. Third LCA line at Nashik ready to roll out first aircraft in coming months. Capacity target: 24 by FY27, 30 by FY28 with private sector partners (L&T wings, VEM center fuselage, Alpha Tocol rear fuselage, Tata TASL fin/intake).
LCH Prachand - Flagship Order
156 LCH Prachand order (90 Army, 66 IAF) worth Rs 62,777 crores is the largest single order. First batch delivery in 36 months (FY28). Production rate of 30/year over 5.5-6 years. Mistral missile firing successfully conducted. Bangalore and Tumkuru facilities to handle production.
Future Growth Catalysts
Rs 1 lakh crore additional pipeline includes 97 LCA Mark 1A, 143 ALH, 10 Dornier, 40 Dornier upgrades. Su-30 upgrade program worth Rs 60,000 crores (84 aircraft) with D&D approval expected in 6 months. LCA Mark 2 first flight 2026, certification 2029, production 2030-31. CATS Warrior UCAV under R&D.
Profitability and Cost Management
PBT at Rs 10,820 crores (35% of revenue) driven by operating efficiency (27% operating profit) and Rs 2,566 crores interest income. Rs 804 crore provision for Sukhoi accident during ROH. Maharashtra sales tax dispute settled at Rs 2,471 crores vs Rs 10,079 crore demand, fully reimbursed by IAF. Operating EBITDA guided at 30-31%, total EBITDA 38-39%.
New Management, Consistent Strategy
New CMD D.K. Sunil (first interaction with investors) alongside new CFO Barenya Senapati. Strategy unchanged: capacity building (Rs 14-15K cr CAPEX over 5 years), capability building (R&D, indigenization), and proactive procurement. Airbus C-check MRO facility at Nashik progressing with Indigo as initial customer. Revenue expected from FY27.