Honeywell has delivered the first three TPE331-12B turboprop engines for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft programme.
The delivery supports the Indian Air Force’s HTT-40 programme and aligns with India’s wider efforts to strengthen domestic aerospace manufacturing, assembly and long-term support capabilities.
The TPE331-12B engine brings a proven track record to the HTT-40, having accumulated extensive operational experience across military training fleets worldwide, including service with the UK Ministry of Defence’s Short Tucano aircraft. Its selection provides the HTT-40 with a reliable propulsion system designed to meet the demands of pilot training operations.
Honeywell and HAL have worked together on the TPE331-engine family for decades, including technology transfer agreements covering the manufacture and repair of TPE331-5 engines used on the Do-228 aircraft. The companies have also collaborated on the supply of key components across multiple HAL programmes.
The HTT-40, developed indigenously by HAL, is now in production for the Indian Defence Forces and is powered by the TPE331-12B engine. HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K described the deliveries as a significant milestone for the programme and said future engine shipments are expected to remain on schedule.
Under the agreement, Honeywell will supply the first 16 engines before HAL begins local assembly and expands in-country repair and overhaul capabilities. More than 80 engines are expected to be delivered over the life of the programme, helping to build India’s expertise in engine maintenance and sustainment.
The TPE331 remains one of the aviation industry’s most established turboprop engine families. Developed for military, regional airline, agricultural and general aviation applications, the range includes 18 engine models and 106 configurations. More than 13,000 engines have been delivered worldwide, accumulating over 122 million flight hours.
