Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has handed over three indigenous aerospace platforms, bringing together capabilities for basic pilot training, advanced fighter training and civil helicopter operations. The platforms are the HTT-40 basic trainer, Dhruv NG civil helicopter and LCA FOC trainer.
The first batch of three HTT-40 aircraft is part of HAL’s ₹6,838-crore contract for 70 aircraft with the Indian Air Force. The turboprop trainer is designed for basic military pilot training and is intended to replace the Swiss-made Pilatus PC-7 MkII used for Stage-I training. HAL has also increased HTT-40 production capacity to 20 aircraft a year across two production lines.
The Dhruv NG is the civil-certified version of HAL’s Advanced Light Helicopter. Pawan Hans has ordered the helicopter for civil operations, including offshore services, air ambulance operations and other passenger roles. The induction also marks HAL’s renewed focus on the civil helicopter market.
The third platform, the LCA FOC trainer, is a two-seat version of the Tejas Mk-1 FOC aircraft designed to support advanced fighter pilot training. Its induction comes as HAL expands Tejas production capacity, including through its Nashik facility.
Together, the three platforms cover different stages of India’s aviation requirements while highlighting the country’s efforts to expand indigenous design, development and manufacturing capabilities in aerospace and defence.
