HAL introduces a state-of-the-art avionics-equipped fighter training model for the airforce.
Story so far: The Hindustan Lead In Fighter Trainer (HLFT)-42 model by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) drew a large crowd as Aero India kicked off in Bengaluru. Its cutting-edge avionics, like Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA), Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite, and Infrared Search and Track (IRST) with Fly By Wire control (FBW) system, will make the HLFT-42 crucial in modern combat aircraft training.
- FBW is an avionic system that substitutes an electronic interface in place of conventional manual flight controls of an aircraft. IRST is a method to detect and track objects that emit infrared radiation.
- HLFT-42 comprises a sophisticated and advanced training suite to train all fighter pilots in safe and efficient ways. HAL expects to complete wind tunnel testing and assembling of the aircraft within two years.
Why it matters? The HLFT-42 was conceived in 2017 and designed entirely by HAL. The presence of a ‘Next Gen Supersonic Trainer’ will help train fighter pilots in fifth-generation aircraft. Presently, advanced trainers prepare on AJT or the Hawk-i aircraft that do not have sensors or radar.
- HLFT-42 will bridge the gap in advanced training by meeting the requirements of Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft like single-seater LCA Mk II and AMCA.
(Image credits: Vayu Aerospace Review’s Twitter post)