HAL's HLFT-42 set to fill the gap in training and actual combat conditions

New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Monday unveiled the scale model of the Hindustan Lead-in Fighter Trainer (HLFT-42) at Aero India Show 2023.

Embossed with a picture of “Bajrang Bali Hanuman” on its tail, HLFT-42 is the 'Next Gen Supersonic Trainer' that will play a "critical role" in modern combat aircraft training with state-of-the-art avionics like Active Electronically Scanned Array, Electronic Warfare Suite, Infrared Search and Track with Fly by Wire control system, the HAL said.

The tail art of the Hindu God Maruti (or Bajrang Bali Hanuman), symbolises strength, speed, and agility, according to HAL.

“There was a project that HAL had done in the past names HF24 Marut. Marut means spirit of the winds. Pawanputra as shown on tail is a natural descendant of Marut. This aircraft has a similar configuration,” said Group Captain HV Thakur while talking about the new aircraft.

“Definitely, this is modern but we are carrying some learnings from our old legacy,” he added.

“It is definitely going to be the game changer because it is designed to fit in the area where training is not done. Training for fifth-generation aircraft. In Indian conditions, we want field pilots to get field experience in actual aircraft. Other countries would realize the gap too," the Group Captain said.

HLFT-42 is expected fill the gap in training and actual combat conditions.

When will HLFT-42 be commissioned?

Without revealing the tentative date, officials said that the aircraft is in the development phase.

“Unveiling of design is just a starting phase. The design and feature will excite the decision-makers and it will subsequently be developed and pitched," they said.