Question : INTERMEDIATE JET TRAINER

(a) whether reports regarding training of pilots on ageing trainer aircraft has been received to the Government;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) whether there has been delay in developing intermediate jet trainer (IIJT) particularly by Hindustan Aeronauticals Limited (HAL);

(d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons for such delays; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government to expedite the project relating to development of IJT and provide it to the Defence Forces?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI MANOHAR PARRIKAR)

(a) to (e): The training of pilots in IAF is currently conducted on Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II, Kiran Mk-I/IA and Hawk Mk-132 aircraft. The Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II and Hawk Mk-132 aircraft are new aircraft. Further, Kiran aircraft were planned to be replaced by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) built Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) aircraft. However, IJT has encountered some design problems. Project implementation is regularly reviewed by a Steering Committee headed by Secretary, Department of Defence Production to expedite the same. IAF is looking at other options including life extension of Kiran aircraft to meet Intermediate flying training requirements of pilots.