The HTT-40 (Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40) is an indigenous, fully aerobatic, tandem-seat basic trainer aircraft designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The first series production aircraft made its maiden flight on October 24, 2025.
Key Features and Specifications
- Role: Primary training for new pilots, including basic flight, aerobatics, instrument flying, and night flying.
- Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- Engine: Powered by a Honeywell TPE331-12B turboprop engine.
- Cockpit: Features a modern, air-conditioned glass cockpit with advanced avionics and a zero-zero ejection seat for enhanced pilot safety.
- Performance:
- Maximum Speed: 400 km/h (249 mph, 216 kn)
- Range: 1,000 km (621 mi, 540 nmi)
- Service Ceiling: 6,000 m (19,680 ft)
- Endurance: 3 hours.
- G Limits: +6/-3.
- Indigenous Content: The aircraft currently has approximately 56% indigenous content, which is planned to increase to over 60%.
- Development: The HTT-40 program involved rigorous testing, including critical six-turn spin tests, and received provisional airworthiness certification in June 2022.
- Procurement: The Indian Air Force has a contract with HAL for the supply of 70 aircraft, with an option for 38 more units.
- Production & Delivery: The first series production aircraft flew in October 2025. HAL plans to deliver the first aircraft to the IAF by January 2026, with 11 more to follow by March 2026. Production is taking place at HAL's Bengaluru and Nashik facilities.
- Future Prospects: HAL also envisions developing a weaponized variant for light attack and counter-insurgency operations, with potential for export.
