NEW DELHI: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will hand over two light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1) trainers to the Indian Air Force on September 18, marking the completion of a contract signed in 2010, people aware of the matter said on Tuesday. The helicopter service provider ordered 10 such multi-role helicopters in January.
The state-run plane maker will also deliver four Dhruv NG helicopters to Pawan Hans the same day, as it sharpens its focus on the civil aviation business, the people said.
The trainers and helicopters will be delivered in the presence of defence minister Rajnath Singh and civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu.
The last two FOC trainers that will be delivered to the IAF feature enhanced radar performance, improved autopilot handling, upgraded fuel systems and avionics software, along with software defined radio (SDR) for secure communications, the people said.
The development comes as HAL targets deriving 25% of its turnover from non-military business over the next decade; the figure currently stands at 5%. The remaining six twin-engine Dhruv NG helicopters are expected to be delivered in the current financial year.
The Dhruv NG builds on the advanced light helicopter (ALH) programme, with earlier technical glitches and safety concerns now addressed. To be sure, ALH Dhruv’s earlier variants are operated by the three services and the coast guard.
