New engine Aravali to power HAL’s next generation helicopters

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is headquartered in Bengaluru. SAFHAL is a joint venture between France-based Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines in India. | Photo Credit: Murali Kumar K

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safal Helicopter Engines Private Limited (SAFHAL) have signed an airframer contract to undertake joint design, development, manufacturing, supply and support of a new generation high power engine called Aravali for the 13 tonne medium lift class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).

IMRH and DBMRH are being designed and developed by HAL.

HAL said the name Aravali is derived from the massive mountain range in western India, symbolising the country’s aspirations to achieve self-reliance in critical engine technologies.

HAL Chairman and Managing Director (Additional Charge) CB Ananthakrishnan said, “This partnership with SAFAL marks a significant moment in our journey towards achieving technological self-reliance in India’s aerospace and defence sectors. This collaboration will not only ensure operational capabilities of the IMRH and DBMRH platforms, but will also contribute to the broader goal of indigenous development of critical defence technologies.”

Safran Helicopter Engines, a joint venture between France-based Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, is dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of new generation helicopter engines in India.

Under this strategic contract, SAFHAL will work with its parent companies on cutting-edge engine technologies, ensuring superior performance, reliability and operational efficiency. This collaboration includes cutting-edge designs, advanced manufacturing processes and rigorous testing protocols to meet the highest global standards.

The IMRH is a new 13-tonne multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. A 12.5-tonne naval version called the DBMRH is being developed for the Indian Navy. The engines will be designed to operate in the diverse and challenging environments in which these helicopters will be deployed.

Future expansion into the civilian market for offshore operations, utility and VVIP transportation is also planned, followed by Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) activities.

Safran Helicopter Engines has been the preferred partner for powering HAL’s helicopters, starting with the Artoust engine used in the Cheetah and Chetak, followed by the Shakti engine and its variants used in the ALH, LCH and LUH.