BAE gets RFP for Hawk aircraft

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LONDON, Sept. 13 (UPI) -- A Request for Proposal for products and services for building 20 BAE Hawk Mk132 aircraft has made by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

HAL, which builds the Hawk advanced trainer jet in India, anticipates a possible contract from the Indian government for aircraft to be used for the Indian air force's aerobatic team.

"This (possible contract) is a tremendous opportunity to build on the success of Hawk in India and demonstrates the progress we are making in capturing significant opportunities to address the defense modernization requirements of the Indian Government," said Guy Griffiths, managing director of BAE's international group.

"Together with HAL, we look forward to giving the Indian air force's display team a fantastic aircraft."

BAE said if India orders the aircraft, the contract would be the third for the supply of materials and equipment for the Hawk Mk132. India in 2004 ordered 66 of the aircraft, 42 of which were built by HAL. Another 57 of the trainers were ordered in 2010.

"Under these contracts, we have worked closely with the Indian Ministry of Defense and HAL to establish a production line in India where the aircraft are now assembled," the company said. "Hawk trainers already in service with the Indian Air Force are performing well."