BAE delivers last UK-built Hawk AJT to IAF

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken delivery of the 24th UK-built Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer from BAE Systems. Interestingly, the aircraft is the first UK-built Indian Hawk, though the last to be delivered.

The aircraft, HT001, was actually the first IAF Hawk to be built, and has served as a flight test platform and proving ground for the integration of new systems and capabilities for the IAF's Hawk fleet for nearly three years.

As well as development and acceptance flights, HT001 was also used to train Indian Air Force flying instructors, who subsequently moved on to teach student pilots on the Hawk. This training programme took place even before deliveries of the aircraft began.

The aircraft made a 3,000 mile journey across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, and landed safely at Air Force Station Bidar to join the rest of the Hawk fleet stationed there.

Michael Christie, senior vice president, India for BAE Systems Military Air Solutions, said: ''Hawk has brought a step change in pilot training capabilities for the IAF and this aircraft, which was the first India Hawk to be built, has been a key part of developing further capabilities for the Indian Air Force. 

''During its time here at BAE Systems, HT001 has proven to be extremely reliable, delivering excellent service from its time as a training platform for Indian Air Force instructors, through to the on-time and to budget completion of the recent flight development programme.