New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has appointed P B Rangarao as Additional Director, designated as Director (Operations), with effect from 28 October 2026.
The appointment follows a letter issued by the Ministry of Defence’s Department of Defence Production on 28 October 2026. It is subject to shareholder approval at the General Meeting.
Professional Background
Rangarao holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Regional Engineering College, Warangal, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management from XIME, Bengaluru. He has also completed a Leadership Development Programme at IIM Ahmedabad.
He joined HAL in 1995 and has over 31 years of experience with the company. Before his appointment, he served as Chief Executive Officer of HAL’s Helicopter Complex. He has also held key positions as General Manager and Executive Director of the Helicopter Division.
Key Contributions at HAL
Rangarao has contributed to several major manufacturing and operational initiatives, including:
Operationalising the new Helicopter Division at Tumakuru and producing the first batch of Light Utility Helicopters (LUH).
Commissioning Light Combat Helicopter (LCH-LSP) bases for the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
Concluding major contracts for 25 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk III for the Indian Army and 156 LCHs for the Army and Air Force.
Re-establishing supply chains for Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.
Expanding production capacity through public-private partnerships and indigenisation initiatives.
Change in Additional Charge
Following Rangarao’s appointment, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Kota Ravi has ceased to hold the additional charge of Director (Operations), with immediate effect.
Rangarao’s appointment is for five years or until further orders from the Ministry of Defence, whichever is earlier. He is not related to any other director on the company’s board.
His Director Identification Number (DIN) is 09667053.
