HAL removes 'Lord Hanuman' image from aircraft tail after controversy at Aero India 2023

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has removed a picture of Lord Hanuman from its supersonic trainer aircraft HLFT-42, showcased at the Aero India 2023, following controversy. The image of Lord Hanuman, with the message “storm is coming” next to it, was initially displayed to showcase the aircraft's power. However, after an internal discussion, HAL decided to take down the image. The five-day aero show, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is Asia's largest and features participation from 809 companies and delegates from 98 countries. The HLFT-42 is a next-generation supersonic trainer aircraft that is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics such as Active Electronically Scanned Array, Electronic Warfare Suite, Infrared Search and Track with Fly by Wire control system. The aircraft is being developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and is expected to play a "critical role" in modern combat aircraft training.