India's air force expects to kick off flight evaluations with the candidates for its replacement basic trainer requirement at Jamnagar air base later this month.
Vying for the planned 75-aircraft deal are the Alenia Aermacchi M-311, Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano, Grob G120TP, Korea Aerospace Industries KT-1 and Pilatus PC-7.
To be acquired off the shelf, the selected type will replace the air force's grounded Hindustan HPT-32 Deepaks. In all, the service has a projected need for 181 new basic trainers.
Under current plans, the selected manufacturer will be required to deliver an initial batch of 12 aircraft within two years of a contract signature.
Source: Flight International
