On Friday, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first three HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). It also delivered the final two Tejas Mk.1 twin-seat trainers.
The HTT-40 program is intended to supply 70 indigenous trainers. The order is valued at $832 million.
Supply-chain constraints affecting the Honeywell TPE331-12B turboprop engines that power the HTT-40 have already delayed deliveries. None of the 12 aircraft planned for delivery in fiscal 2025-26 has been delivered.
The delays test India's push for self-reliance in military aviation and its ability to maintain a stable pilot-training pipeline. HAL plans to ramp up production, but securing engine supplies from its US partner, Honeywell, remains key to the program's success.