Grob G-120
German trainer aircraft, utilized worldwide for military pilot training, developed in the late 20th century.
| Length | 8.1 m (26.6 ft) |
| Wingspan | 10.2 m (33.4 ft) |
| Height | 2.7 m (8.7 ft) |
| Wing area | 13.3 m² (143.2 sqft) |
| Empty weight | 1,080 kg (2,381 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 1,490 kg (3,285 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 1 × pistons engine Lycoming AEIO-540-D4D5 194 kW each |
| Maximum speed | 435 km/h (270 mph) |
| Operational range | 1,540 km (957 mi) |
| Service ceiling | 5,486 m (17,999 ft) |
| Climb rate | 6.501 m/s (21.3 ft/s) |
| Takeoff distance | 707 m (2,320 ft) |
Description
The Grob G 120TP is a two-seat composite low-wing turboprop training and aerobatic aircraft manufactured by Germany's Grob Aircraft. Designed for basic and advanced military and civil pilot training, the aircraft serves as a lead-in platform for jet, transport, and rotary-wing aircraft. The type received EASA Part 23 certification in May 2013.
Development
The G 120TP was initially designed as a development of the Grob G 120A, but evolved into a distinct aircraft type following the integration of a turboprop powertrain. EASA Part 23 type certification was completed in May 2013. The Indonesian Air Force served as the launch customer, with initial deliveries to Argentina following in June 2013.
Design
The aircraft features a fiberglass-reinforced plastic airframe stressed to +6/-4g, carbon-fiber wings with winglets, a low tailplane, and retractable tricycle landing gear. Power is provided by a single 340 kW (456 hp) Rolls-Royce M250-B17F turboprop engine driving a five-bladed MT Propeller, giving a maximum speed of 454 km/h and a service ceiling of 7,600 meters. The cockpit is equipped with a HOTAS control system, movable seats or optional Martin-Baker Mk.17 lightweight ejection seats, and space for crew wearing military flight gear and helmets. Avionics options include a four-screen Genesys Aerosystems IDU-680 EFIS, an autopilot, an oxygen system, and air conditioning.
Operational History
The Indonesian Air Force was the launch operator of the G 120TP, acquiring 30 aircraft. Additional major operators include Mexico with 25 aircraft, Bangladesh with 24, the United Kingdom with 23, and Myanmar with 20. Canada ordered 23 aircraft for basic flight training, while Sweden ordered 13 aircraft, receiving its first deliveries in April 2023. Other military users include Argentina, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Germany, Jordan, and Kenya.
Variants
- CT-102B Astra II: The Royal Canadian Air Force designation for G 120TP aircraft operated for basic flying training at 15 Wing Moose Jaw.
- Grob Prefect T1: The designation used for the fleet of 23 G 120TP aircraft providing tri-service Elementary Flying Training in the UK Military Flying Training System.
- SK 40: The Swedish Air Force designation for its G 120TP basic trainer aircraft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft is the Grob G-120?
What is the maximum speed of the Grob G-120?
What is the range of the Grob G-120?
When did the Grob G-120 first fly?
How many Grob G-120 have been built?
Which countries operate the Grob G-120?
What is the service ceiling of the Grob G-120?
- AUG 62026 Updated Description updated
- JUL 272026 Updated Name updated
- APR 72026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed
- FEB 72026 Updated Top speed added
- JAN 122026 Updated Range updated in a site-wide editorial pass