HAL Set to Deliver First HTT-40 Trainer Aircraft to Indian Air Force
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is preparing to deliver the first set of HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft, aimed at enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) ability to train new pilots. Officials revealed on Sunday that this delivery comes after some delays.
According to sources, three HTT-40 aircraft have been built, with two constructed in Bengaluru and one in Nashik, and are now ready to be handed over to the IAF.
The IAF had originally ordered 70 of these trainers for ₹6,838 crore three years ago to help train beginners in flying. HAL was expected to deliver 12 aircraft during the 2025-26 fiscal year but faced delays due to a shortage of engines. Recently, the US company Honeywell resolved these supply issues and has ensured the timely delivery of the necessary TPE331-12B turboprop engines.
Under the contract worth $100 million signed four years ago for supplying and manufacturing 88 engines and kits, Honeywell was initially scheduled to deliver the first engine in September 2025. The agreement includes the supply of 16 engines by Honeywell, while HAL will assemble the remaining engines through technology transfer.
Last October, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated production lines for the HTT-40 trainers as well as the LCA-Mk1A in Nashik to support the air force’s needs. With these developments, HAL now has the capacity to produce 20 HTT-40 aircraft each year at its factories in Bengaluru and Nashik.
For now, new pilots undergo initial flying training using Swiss-made Pilatus PC-7 MkII basic trainers. This Stage-I training is essential for all pilots before they specialize in one of three streams: fighter, transport, or helicopter. Those chosen for the fighter category will proceed to Stage-II training with the PC-7 MkII and Kiran Mk-1A jet trainers, followed by Stage-III training on the British-origin Hawk advanced jet trainers.
