BAE SYSTEMS HAWK TRAINER - INDIA IMPLEMENTATION MoU SIGNED

The Government of India today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the British High Commissioner to India in New Delhi ‘for the effective and uninterrupted implementation of the contracts regarding acquisition of 66 HAWK Advanced Jet Trainers (AJTs)'. This underpins the supply of 66 aircraft, with associated support and interim pilot training.

Commenting on the news, Sir Richard Evans, Chairman, BAE Systems said, "I am delighted that the Indian Government has chosen the Hawk, the world's best selling advanced jet trainer, for the Indian Air Force. This programme will continue the company's long standing relationship with India; particularly with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a long term partner. BAE Systems has been partnering with Indian companies for over sixty years and today's announcement ensures that this association will continue well into the 21st century�.

The selection of Hawk by the Indian Government represents a significant programme for BAE Systems. The initial batch of 24 aircraft will be built at BAE Systems' facilities in the UK with the first aircraft to be delivered to the Indian Air Force in 2007. The following 42 will be manufactured in India through a partnership with HAL.

The Indian Air Force is to receive an advanced version of the Hawk 100 series. It features a glass cockpit with Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick (HOTAS) controls, head down Multi-Function Displays (MFD), a Head Up Display (HUD). The aircraft utilises the Rolls Royce Adour engine, which has a high degree of commonality with the engines in service with the Indian Air Force Jaguar aircraft.