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| Kiran Mk II (Wiki Info) of the Surya Kiran |
Trainer Aircraft in IAF
The HPT-32 aircraft being used as Basic Trainer Aircraft since 1986 were grounded in July 2009 due to safety reasons. Thereafter, the basic training has been shifted to Kiran Mk 1/1A aircraft earlier utilized for Intermediate training
A contract for procurement of 75 Basic Trainer Aircraft was signed with M/s Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, Switzerland on 24th May 2012.
The case for procurement of the Basic Trainer Aircraft was processed through a multi-vendor procurement as per DPP-2008 and the Swiss company, M/s Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, emerged as the L1 vendor. The delivery of these 75 aircraft is scheduled from February 2013 to August 2015
This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri MadhuGoudYaskhi and others in Lok Sabha today.
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Training to Pilots
Acquisition of new platforms is part of the modernisation and upgradation of Indian Air Force's capabilities. The new combat aircraft would be manned by pilots of the existing older fleet, which are planned for replacement by the new aircraft.
Simulators for different trainer aircrafts like Advanced Jet Trainer, Intermediate Jet Trainer, Basic Jet Trainer, Kiran MK l/ll, HPT-32 have been contracted.
Concerted efforts have been taken by IAF to carry out a proactive publicity campaign including (i) participation in career training and exhibitions; (ii) advertisement in print and electronic media; (iii) motivational lectures; and (iv) visuals / signage at strategic locations to meet the shortage of pilots. Flying Branch has also been opened for men Short Service Commissioned Officers. Two Air Force Selection Boards are being set up to augment selection capacity.
This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Vilas Muttemwar and Shri Jagdish Sharmain Lok Sabha today.