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In a significant achievement for India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is preparing to roll out the first series production model of the Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) aircraft.
Official sources indicate the inaugural aircraft will be unveiled at HAL's Nashik facility in mid-to-late September, marking a crucial step in modernising the Indian Air Force (IAF) training fleet.
This aircraft is the first of 70 units ordered by the IAF under a contract valued at approximately ₹6,800 crore, which was finalised in 2023. The agreement outlines a delivery timeline spanning six years.
The upcoming rollout will initiate the formal delivery process, with the aircraft slated to be integrated into IAF training squadrons following the successful completion of all acceptance procedures.
The HTT-40 is a locally designed and developed basic turboprop trainer intended to serve in the first stage of a pilot's training. It is set to replace the IAF's ageing HPT-32 Deepak trainers and will operate alongside the Swiss-made Pilatus PC-7 Mk II aircraft currently used for this purpose.
The HTT-40 will provide foundational flight skills to new cadets before they advance to more complex jet trainers.
Engineered for superior performance and safety, the trainer is powered by a Honeywell Garrett TPE331-12B engine. It features a modern glass cockpit, up-to-date avionics, and critical safety equipment such as ejection seats.
The aircraft's design allows it to perform a wide range of training exercises, including basic aerobatics, flying with instruments, and night-time operations, making it a highly versatile platform for aspiring pilots.
The HTT-40 programme also provides a major impetus to the domestic defence industry.
The initial batch of aircraft will be produced with over 60 percent indigenous content, a figure that is planned to rise as production continues. This commitment supports a network of Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) involved in supplying components and systems.
The production of the HTT-40 marks a diversification for HAL's Nashik division. Historically renowned as a hub for manufacturing and overhauling fighter jets such as the MiG-21, MiG-27, and the Su-30MKI, the facility will now add a modern training aircraft to its production line.
This expansion highlights HAL's versatile capability in contributing to both the combat and training arms of the Indian Air Force.
