Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd orders 88 Honeywell TPE331-12B engines for its HTT-40 trainer aircraft.

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) inked a deal worth more than $100 million on July 27 for the supply and manufacture of 88 TPE331-12B engines/kits, as well as maintenance and support services, to power the Hindustan Trainer Aircraft (HTT-40), Frontier India reports.

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The Honeywell TPE331-12B engine is a single shaft turboprop engine with an integral inlet and gearbox, two-stage centrifugal compressor, power turbine, gearbox, three-stage axial turbine, turbine exhaust diffuser, and EEC for power and operational characteristics (Picture source: Honeywell)

HAL has developed HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft to meet the Indian Air Forces’ (IAF) basic training needs, Frontier India reminds. A total of 70 aircraft may be required, said R Madhavan, CMD of HAL, adding that the deal with IAF is nearing completion. Eric Walters, Honeywell Defense & Space Senior Director of OE Sales, said the TPE331-12 engine had proven itself in operations worldwide.

Honeywell claims it is dedicated to supporting the export of HTT-40 aircraft in the next few years, as well as additional engine programmes now under consideration. This deal would open the path for HAL and Honeywell to work together in the future, he added.

The TPE331-12B engine is a single shaft turboprop engine with an integral inlet and gearbox, two-stage centrifugal compressor, power turbine, gearbox, three-stage axial turbine, turbine exhaust diffuser, and EEC for power and operational characteristics. TPE331-12 B engines have powered the HTT-40 prototypes since 2014. HAL and Honeywell are looking at additional sectors like 1MW Turbo Generators and the production, repair, and overhaul of TPE 331-10GP / 12JR engines for different Dornier versions, Frontier India reports..