Bengaluru, Feb 18 (IANS): BAE Systems has secured a five-year contract worth 18.5 million pounds (Rs.1.78 billion) to provide Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) a comprehensive package comprising ground support equipment, spares, support and training for the Hawk Mk132 advanced jet trainer (AJT).

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, a BAE Systems statement said.

The agreement was signed at Aero India 2015 here between Wing Commander M.P. Benjamin (retd), general manager of HAL's overhaul division and Steve Timms, Managing Director, Defence Information, Training and Services, Military Air & Information, BAE Systems, in the presence of HAL’s Managing Director, Bangalore Complex Naresh Babu and Chris Boardman, Managing Director, Military Air & Information, BAE Systems.

“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,” Timms said.

India is the largest operator of the Hawk AJT 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 aircraft. The aircraft, to be built by HAL in Bengaluru, will fulfil the Indian Air Force’s requirement for its prestigious aerobatic team.