After 25 Years, HAL's HJT-36 Sitara Trainer Overcomes Hurdles, Clearance Expected This Year

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) troubled HJT-36 Sitara intermediate jet trainer (IJT) program appears to be on the cusp of a major breakthrough, with final clearance anticipated later this year. This development would pave the way for user trials with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and potential mass production.

The Sitara, designed to replace the IAF's aging HJT-16 Kiran trainers, encountered a significant setback in 2017 when it failed crucial spin tests. These tests assess an aircraft's ability to recover from potentially dangerous spins, a maneuver novice pilots might inadvertently initiate.

In response, HAL implemented modifications to the tail and rear fuselage sections of the HJT-36, aiming to resolve the spin test issues. These changes, coupled with the need to update the aircraft's avionics suite, necessitated a new round of certifications, causing further delays.

However, sources within HAL indicated that the major obstacles have been overcome, with only a few developmental tests remaining. HAL officials are optimistic about completing these tests soon, clearing the path for user trials with the IAF.

Successful user trials could lead to clearance for the production of the HJT-36, with the IAF reportedly interested in procuring up to 70 units to replace its aging Kiran fleet.

The potential induction of the HJT-36 would mark a significant milestone for India's domestic defense industry. Not only would it provide the IAF with a modern trainer aircraft, but it would also demonstrate HAL's capability to address technical challenges and successfully deliver on complex projects.

Additional Open-Source Information​

• The HJT-36 Sitara is a subsonic intermediate jet trainer aircraft designed and developed by HAL's Aircraft Research and Design Centre (ARDC).
• It features a conventional low-wing design with tandem seating and is intended to train pilots in various flight maneuvers, including air-to-air combat and ground attack.
• The aircraft has been plagued by delays and technical challenges since its inception in 1999, but recent developments suggest it may finally be nearing completion.

 

[RG]

Please remind again when it is in production and delivered 🙂

 

[Ajath Shri]

Their laugh does not change the reality that their products are not indigenous and the PR will not help in time of war

Indigenous or not , their products fly. And they do get enquiries from other countries as well . And I am quite sure they will sell because of their superior marketing skills. India need to learn a lot about designing and developing a product adhering to timelines and also have a strong marketing team for sales promotion.
But adhering to timelines is extremely critical to build a brand and reputation

 

[Ajath Shri]

US wud save turkey...i'm just flabergasted by the insane depth of your geopolitics understanding

Turkey is still a part of NATO alliance and will be supported militarily by other NATO members.

 

[Ajath Shri]

BaE Hawk trainers are imported.
MMRFA is basically an Import bonanza.

Not blaming IAF, since the only current alternative, our much loved HAL's credentials and capabilities are unquestionably rock-bottom.

If left to HAL alone, IAF would end up defending with stones and stick.

One cannot blame IAF for showing interest in importing weapons. For that matter I don't blame the army or the Navy. If their expectations are met domestically and that too at the correct time , why should the tri services look outside for their requirements ? Let the domestic industries give the confidence of fulfilling their demands. Then we can debate about the Tri services interest in weapon imports.

 

[Ajath Shri]

Long story short, it'll take just 1 decade more for HAL to finally go into the production of Hjt 36.

If it happens in 1 decade then it calls for a big big celebration.