HAL set to roll out combat version of Hawk aircraft by February 2017; eyes export potential

NEW DELHI: India is set to soon offer a locally made combat version of the Hawk aircraft for export to the world with license producer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited ( HAL) set to roll out the first of the highly weaponised light attack planes by February 2017.

The Combat Hawk, which has already generated interest for its potential in unconventional operations, is currently under development jointly with its original manufacturer BAE with HAL looking to integrate a new engine, weapon systems and possibly a radar. "The aim is to demonstrate the aircraft by the next Aero India show that is to take place in 2017. The project is on track. There is a strong demand for such an aircraft," a senior official associated with the Hawk aircraft project told ET.

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A weaponized version of the Hawk is already in service, with the Navy demonstrating its fire power at the recently concluded International Fleet Review (IFR).

BAE has in the past shown its support for the combat Hawk project for possible export orders. The Hawk aircraft – 123 of which are on order for the air force and navy – are the primary advanced trainers for combat pilots in India. Pilots undergo their final stage of flying training on the aircraft before moving on to other streams.

HAL, which builds the plane under license at Bengaluru, is set to deliver all 123 aircraft to the two services a year ahead of schedule, opening up capacity at its line. Besides the under negotiation order for 20 plus aircraft for the Surya Kiran aerobatic display team of the air force, the Navy too has expressed interest in ordering 17 more aircraft.