A one of a kind, 3-tone livery applied to the indigenous Hindustan Jet Trainer 16 [HJT-16] Kiran aircraft.
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The repainted U2515 airframe was prepped up for display at the 1996 edition of Aero India, the biennial Air show held at the Yelahanka Airbase in, then, Bangalore.
via: www.aviationphotocompany.com
Not the first time, though. Aircraft builder, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited [HAL], has, on earlier occasions too decked up the bird in eye-catching colours, in a bid to market its offerings to international clientele, in attendance at such events. The U-2515 airframe, in service with the Indian Air Force [IAF], is a Mk. II variant of the aircraft, with an improved Powerplant and weapon delivery capability.
In its regular role, the HJT-16 serves to play the role of an Intermediate Jet Trainer for India’s military aviation cadets, who move up to this Turbojet-powered aircraft after establishing competency on an ab-initio Basic Trainer, presently the IAF’s Swiss Pilatus PC-7 Turboprop Aircraft & the Navy’s Pipistrel Virus SW 80. First flown in 1964, the Kiran continues playing it’s role 56 years later.
Another HAL-driven effort, currently developing the Hindustan Jet Trainer 36 [HJT-36] Sitara, would eventually replace these. A long time coming.
Godspeed
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