HAL rolls out 40 prototypes of HTT-40

In a boost to Make in India programme, the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd has rolled out 40 prototypes of indigenous trainer aircraft Hindustan Turboprop Trainer (HTT-40).

The aircraft is ready for ground run, and the flight trials will come later.

"Boost to Make in India - HAL rolls-out HTT 40 prototype. Ready for ground runs & taxi trials. Later first flight," the defence ministry said in a tweet.

The HTT-40 is a tandem seat trainer aircraft being developed at HAL for the first stage training of rookie pilots.

Shortage of trainer aircrafts with the Indian Air Force has been a issue of concern.

The existing strength of trainer aircraft is 253 as against the sanctioned strength of 430, and the shortage is around 40 percent of the total requirement.

In view of the delays in the development of HTT-40, the DAC on February 28 approved the procurement of additional 38 PC-7 MK-II aircraft.

The life of existing Kiran aircrafts has also been extended by two years and the phase out will now commence from 2017-18 onwards.