
India Denies Allegations of HAL Transferring Sensitive Tech to Russia
India has strongly denied allegations that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) transferred sensitive technology to Russia, calling the claims factually incorrect and misleading. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that HAL has consistently complied with all international obligations related to strategic trade control and end-user agreements.
The controversy stems from a recent report which claimed HAL facilitated the transfer of British-origin technology to Russia’s state-run arms agency, Rosoboronexport. According to the report, HAL allegedly received parts and equipment from a UK-based firm and then exported items with matching product codes to Russia. The report implied that this violated international sanctions and controls.
In response, Indian officials categorically dismissed the accusations, emphasizing that HAL operates under a strict legal and regulatory framework that governs all strategic trade activities. The government criticized the report for distorting facts to suit a particular narrative and noted that such claims lack proper verification and understanding of the procedures followed in international defense trade.
Officials reiterated that Indian companies involved in sensitive sectors such as defense manufacturing are required to maintain rigorous compliance with global standards. All exports undergo scrutiny and are subject to clearances, ensuring that there are no breaches of international commitments.
The Ministry also urged reputed international media platforms to conduct due diligence and fact-checking before publishing allegations that can potentially damage reputations and diplomatic relations. The government emphasized that speculative or biased reporting undermines constructive international engagement, particularly in sensitive sectors like defense cooperation.
India reaffirmed its commitment to responsible international behavior and its adherence to export control norms, stating that misleading claims will not deter the country’s resolve to maintain transparency and legality in its global defense partnerships.