India has issued a request for information for approximately 150 jet trainer aircraft as part of an effort to modernize the Indian Air Force’s pilot training pipeline. The planned acquisition is intended to replace the aging BAE Systems Hawk Mk 132 fleet, which has served in the advanced training role since 2008.The proposed aircraft would prepare pilots for modern combat platforms, including the Rafale, Tejas Mk-1A, and Su-30MKI, as well as the planned Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.India’s requirements include advanced flight-control and cockpit technologies. Candidate aircraft are expected to feature fly-by-wire controls, glass cockpits, modern ejection seats, and full-authority digital engine controls. The aircraft must also incorporate embedded virtual avionics and electronic warfare systems.Compatibility with India’s NavIC satellite-navigation system is another requirement. The trainers must also work with 360-degree dome simulators to support combined live and virtual training activities.Procurement ScheduleCompanies interested in the program can submit responses by October 2026. A formal request for proposals is expected in December 2027. The Indian Air Force wants all 150 aircraft delivered within 60 months after contract award.The procurement is expected to emphasize domestic participation, including local production, indigenous teams, and technology transfer in accordance with India’s defense procurement policies.Potential contenders reportedly include India’s HAL HLFT-42, the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, South Korea’s KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, and Italy’s Leonardo M-346 Master.Broader Air Power ExpansionThe trainer acquisition is part of India’s wider effort to strengthen its aerospace capabilities. The country has also begun participating formally in the French-led Future Combat Air System initiative, which is intended to develop a sixth-generation fighter aircraft.India has additionally launched the first domestically produced Airbus C-295 aircraft under a 2021 framework covering up to 56 airlifters for military transport operations. These efforts follow reports of potential Israeli involvement in an Indian aerial-refueling aircraft program and development work on an electric aircraft for tactical pilot training.
