Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing the HLFT-42, a new advanced trainer aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This jet will prepare pilots to fly next-generation fighters like the Tejas MkII and the future AMCA. 

The IAF wants it to have a powerful and highly reliable engine so pilots can train regularly without delays, meeting the heavy monthly flying hours needed for modern combat readiness.

HLFT-42 Trainer to Feature High-Availability Powerplant

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is working with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to build the HLFT-42, a Lead-in Fighter Trainer (LIFT) aircraft meant to train pilots for flying advanced jets like the Tejas MkII and the future Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

The IAF has set a clear requirement: the HLFT-42 must have an engine that can handle heavy usage, about 30–40 flying hours per month per jet, without frequent downtime. 

This is crucial for uninterrupted pilot training at the high speeds and performance levels needed for modern combat aircraft.

Initially, HAL considered using the Russian AL-31FN engine, which powers the Su-27 and Su-30 and is known for its reliability, plus it could be sourced through India’s existing defence ties with Russia. 

But the IAF’s focus on high operational availability has pushed HAL towards another option — the American F-414 engine.

The F-414, already chosen for the Tejas MkII, produces 98 kN of thrust and has an established supply chain in India thanks to a June 2023 agreement with GE Aerospace for local manufacturing. 

This makes it easier to keep the aircraft operational with minimal delays.

There’s also a third option in development - a 120 kN engine being jointly developed by India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and a French partner, likely Safran. 

This engine would give the HLFT-42 higher thrust and the ability to supercruise (fly at supersonic speed without afterburners), matching the AMCA’s future needs. 

However, it won’t be ready until the mid-2030s, and its development timeline is uncertain.

The HLFT-42 program itself is moving slowly. 

The first test aircraft is expected only around 2031–2032. The aircraft will weigh about 16.5 tons and will be designed not just as a trainer but also for combat missions. 

Work on the airframe may start around 2029, using parts from the Tejas MkII to save money and time. Production might begin around 2035, as HAL is already busy with the Tejas Mk1A, MkII, and AMCA projects.

This slow schedule could be a problem for the IAF’s training needs, as the current BAE Hawk 132 trainers are getting older and the HJT-36 Yashas trainer program is stalled. For the HLFT-42, engine choice is key:

• AL-31FN – Adequate thrust (74 kN dry, 122 kN with afterburner) but lower availability rates.

• F-414 – Slightly less thrust but proven reliability, easier supply due to local manufacturing.

• 120 kN GTRE-French engine – Best performance potential but long development time and risk of delays, similar to the earlier Kaveri engine project.

The IAF’s focus on high availability shows it values keeping aircraft ready to fly over rushing the project to completion, even if that means the HLFT-42 enters service later than hoped.