SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
The long-awaited IJT-36 Sitara trainer aircraft, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), continues to be a source of both hope and frustration for the Indian Air Force (IAF). While HAL claims to be nearing the end of the development phase, the program has faced significant delays and setbacks over its two-decade-long journey.
Initially envisioned as a replacement for the aging Kiran Mk II, the Sitara has encountered numerous hurdles, including critical design flaws that necessitated major modifications to the tail and undercarriage sections. These issues resulted in failed spin tests, a crucial parameter for any trainer aircraft.
The IAF, grappling with the retirement of the Kiran fleet by 2026, has already initiated measures to bridge the training gap. The procurement of PC-7 BTA aircraft for basic training and the upcoming induction of HTT-40 trainers for stage-I and II training are steps in this direction.
However, the prolonged development of the Sitara has led to growing impatience within the IAF. Many within the force believe that the program has missed its window of opportunity and that the focus should now shift to more advanced trainers. The proposed HLFT-42 supersonic trainer, also from HAL, has emerged as a potential alternative, offering a more capable platform for future pilots.
As the Sitara program limps towards completion, the IAF finds itself in a challenging position. Balancing the need for indigenous development with the urgency of operational requirements will be a critical test for the force and the defense industry.
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