Honeywell has delivered the first three TPE331-12B engines for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft, supporting production of the type for the Indian Air Force and advancing plans for greater in-country aerospace capability.

The delivery extends a decades-long relationship between Honeywell and HAL, which have previously collaborated on manufacturing and support programmes involving the TPE331 engine family.

Selected for the HTT-40, the TPE331-12B brings a propulsion system with extensive military training experience, including service with Britain's Ministry of Defence on the Short Tucano. Its single-shaft design provides rapid throttle response, a characteristic valued in pilot training operations.

“The TPE331's single-shaft design delivers immediate throttle response, which is critical for pilot training,” says Thandava Edara, vice president of engineering and head of aerospace engineering, India, Honeywell Technology Solutions. “Our work with HAL and the Indian Air Force underscores our shared commitment to strengthening local manufacturing, assembly and long-term support capabilities in India.”

The companies' previous cooperation has included technology transfer arrangements covering manufacture and repair of TPE331-5 engines used on HAL's Do-228 aircraft, alongside the supply of components for other HAL programmes.

Honeywell will provide the first 16 engines for the HTT-40 fleet before HAL begins local engine assembly and expands domestic repair and overhaul capability. More than 80 engines are expected to support the programme over the coming years.

“These deliveries mark a significant milestone for the HTT-40 program, and we are confident future engine deliveries will continue on schedule,” says Ravi K, chairman and managing director, HAL. “We look forward to deepening this partnership.”

HAL's experience with the TPE engine family is expected to support long-term operation and sustainment of the HTT-40 fleet as production continues for the Indian Defence Forces.