Bengaluru: The Hindustan Turbo Trainer Aircraft – 40 (HTT-40), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been indigenously designed and developed by the Aircraft Research & Design Centre of HAL and is based on the training requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
While the HTT-40, a basic trainer aircraft, first flew on May 31, 2016, and obtained system-level certification on June 6, 2022, the clearance by the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification for the full aircraft is currently underway.
The Deputy Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit flew the aircraft here today.
The HTT-40 is a fully aerobatic aircraft, powered by a four-bladed turbo-prop engine. It is fitted with a state-of-the-art glass cockpit, modern avionics and the latest safety features, including a zero-zero ejection seat. The trainer has a maximum speed of 450 kilometres per hour and a maximum service ceiling of six kilometres.
The IAF signed a contract with HAL for the supply of 70 aircraft, the induction of which will commence on September 15, 2025, and continue till March 15, 2030.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the HTT-40 will enhance the quality of training of ab initio pilots of the Indian Armed Forces. The procurement will also include a Full Mission Simulator for the aircraft which will supplement the aerial training, allowing pilots to practice different profiles on the ground, prior to the sorties.
HTT-40 is yet another step towards achieving greater self-reliance in the defence and aviation sphere in line with the Government’s vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’, the Defence Ministry stated.
– global bihari bureau
