New Delhi (Agency): Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, flew the Hindustan Turbo Trainer Aircraft-40 (HTT-40) Basic Trainer Aircraft today in Bengaluru. This aircraft has been made in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and designed by its Aircraft Research & Design Centre. The aircraft is custom-made to fit the training needs of the Indian Armed Forces.
The HTT-40 is an aerobatic aircraft, meaning it can do complex air movements. It is powered by a four-bladed turbo-prop engine and has a modern “glass cockpit,” along with the latest avionics and safety features. One of these safety features is a zero-zero ejection seat, which can save a pilot’s life in emergencies. The aircraft can fly at a top speed of 450 kilometers per hour and can go as high as six kilometers above the ground. The HTT-40 had its first flight on May 31, 2016, and got its system level certification on June 6, 2022. It is now waiting for full clearance from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has made a deal with HAL to buy 70 of these aircraft. These planes will start being part of the Air Force from September 15, 2025, and will continue to join until March 15, 2030. Besides the planes, the Air Force will also get a Full Mission Simulator. This simulator will help new pilots practice flying on the ground before they actually fly in the air. This will make the training for new pilots of the Indian Armed Forces even better.
The making and flying of HTT-40 is a big step for India. It shows that the country is moving toward being more self-reliant in areas like defense and aviation. This is in line with the Government’s vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’, which means a self-reliant India.
The flight of the HTT-40 by the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff is a milestone for India’s defense capabilities. It not only shows the country’s progress in making its own high-quality aircraft but also improves the quality of pilot training for the Indian Armed Forces. With its advanced features and safety measures, the HTT-40 is set to be a valuable addition to India’s aerial capabilities.