India's desire to equip its armed forces with indigenously developed hardware has led Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) to propose a local rival to BAE Systems' market-leading Hawk, in an expansion to its trainer portfolio.
Dubbed the HJT-39, or twin-engine combat aircraft trainer (CAT), the new design is intended to compete with the Hawk during any follow-on to India's 66-aircraft Hawk 132 advanced jet trainer (AJT) programme. HAL will locally build 42 of the Indian air force's Hawks under an offset package associated with the AJT purchase, but hopes to deny its partner future business in India by offering the new CAT system.
With a maximum take-off weight of 9,500kg (20,950lb), including a stores weight of up to 2,000kg, the proposed twin-seat transonic aircraft could be approved for production by mid-year and make its first flight 44 months later, says Yogesh Kumar, HAL's executive director for design. The system could receive initial operational clearance with the Indian air force within a further three years, with the service holding a potential requirement for up to 100 of the aircraft, says HAL.
The CAT will be powered by two Russian NPO Saturn AL-55I engines, providing commonality with HAL's single-engined HJT-36 intermediate jet trainer, says Kumar.
The CAT will have a full glass cockpit to support advanced combat and tactical training, says HAL, which is also proposing an armed close air support and counter-insurgency variant.
Source: Flight International
