BAE Systems wins £18.5m Hawk jet contract

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BAE Systems has secured a five-year contract worth £18.5 million to provide Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) in India with a package comprising ground support equipment, spares, support and training for the Hawk Mk132 jet trainer.

This is in support of HAL's plans to establish a dedicated repair and overhaul facility for the aircraft in advance of a major servicing milestone anticipated in 2016.

Steve Timms, managing director, defence information, training and services at BAE Systems, said: "This agreement deepens our partnering commitment to HAL and further develops HAL's in-country capabilities that are helping to deliver an enhanced training capability to the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy."

India is the largest operator of the Hawk advanced jet trainer with 123 aircraft ordered to date, of which over 90 have been delivered to the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy.

The Hawks in service have clocked up nearly 70,000 flying hours. BAE Systems has commenced contract negotiations with HAL on a potential order to supply products and services for the manufacture of a further 20 Hawk aircraft. The aircraft, to be built by HAL in Bengaluru, will fulfil the Indian Air Force's requirement for its prestigious aerobatic team.