Smiths Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) have signed a contract for an undisclosed amount for the design and development of the Integrated Avionics System (IAS) for the HJT-36 Intermediate Jet Trainer. The IAS comprises an open systems architecture mission computer, head up display (HUD), HUD repeater, rear data entry panel, attitude and heading reference system and air data computers. Around 150 aircraft will be bought by the Indian air force to replace its ageing Kiran II trainers.
Commenting on the contract Neal McKeever, managing director of Smiths Aerospace, Electronic Systems, says: "This contract builds on our success on the mission computer for the Indian air force Sepecat Jaguar, further strengthens our position on military aircraft in India and also reinforces our longstanding good relationship with HAL."
Smiths Aerospace (Hall 2B Stand B8) already supplies the HUD, weapon aiming computer, auto-stabiliser system and cockpit instruments for the current Indian Jaguars and was awarded a contract in August 2000 for a new open systems architecture mission computer. This programme involves Smiths Aerospace and HAL in both co-development and co-production of the mission computer. Smiths equipment is also fitted to the BAE Systems Next Generation and 100/200 Hawk, Boeing AV-8B, Harrier II, T-45 Goshawk, Panavia Tornado and Northrop Grumman F-5E. Similar systems will be fitted to the BAE Systems Hawk aircraft for India¹s Advanced Jet Trainer.
Source: Flight Daily News
