Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
HJT-16 Kiran
The HJT‑16 Kiran is a two‑seat, single‑engine jet trainer developed in the early 1960s by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force. Originating from a requirement to replace the ageing Vampire trainers, HAL collaborated with the French firm Dassault for aerodynamic data and adopted the British Rolls‑Royce Viper engine, delivering the first flight on 16 October 1964. Production began in 1967 and a total of 296 aircraft were built, serving in training squadrons across India and later being exported to Sri Lanka and Ethiopia.
Key features include a low‑wing metallic airframe, a retractable tricycle undercarriage, and a cockpit equipped with dual flight‑control sticks and modern navigation instruments for its era. The Viper turbo‑jet provides 1,640 lbf of thrust, allowing a maximum speed of around 770 km/h and a service ceiling of 13 000 m. The Kiran’s robust design permits basic aerobatics, formation flying, and weapons‑delivery training, with optional hardpoints for practice ordnance.
Its significance lies in establishing India’s indigenous jet‑training capability, reducing reliance on foreign platforms, and forming a foundation for later advanced trainers such as the HAL BAE Hawk. The Kiran remains a symbol of self‑reliance in Indian military aviation.
Key features include a low‑wing metallic airframe, a retractable tricycle undercarriage, and a cockpit equipped with dual flight‑control sticks and modern navigation instruments for its era. The Viper turbo‑jet provides 1,640 lbf of thrust, allowing a maximum speed of around 770 km/h and a service ceiling of 13 000 m. The Kiran’s robust design permits basic aerobatics, formation flying, and weapons‑delivery training, with optional hardpoints for practice ordnance.
Its significance lies in establishing India’s indigenous jet‑training capability, reducing reliance on foreign platforms, and forming a foundation for later advanced trainers such as the HAL BAE Hawk. The Kiran remains a symbol of self‑reliance in Indian military aviation.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 10.6 metre
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 190
- First Flight
- 1964
Design & Classification
- Manufacturer
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
- Wikidata ID
- Q1562722