Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have executed an airframer contract to commence the joint design, development, manufacture, supply, and support of a new generation high-power engine, designated as “Aravalli,” for the 13-ton Medium Lift class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), and Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH). HAL is responsible for the design and development of the engine. The moniker ‘Aravalli’, which is derived from the grand mountain range of India.
A significant milestone in India’s aerospace and defense sector, SAFHAL is a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL. It is dedicated to the design, development, production, sales, and support of new generation helicopter engines in India.
Under this strategic agreement, SAFHAL will collaborate with its parent companies to develop state-of-the-art engine technologies that guarantee operational efficiency, reliability, and superior performance. State-of-the-art design, rigorous testing protocols, and advanced manufacturing processes are all part of this collaboration, which is designed to meet the most stringent global standards.
HAL has developed the IMRH, a 13-ton multi-role helicopter, to satisfy the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Navy is also in the process of developing a naval version of the 12.5-ton DBMRH. The helicopters will be deployed in a variety of challenging environments, and the engines will be designed to operate in these conditions. Additionally, there are plans to expand into the civil market for offshore operations, utility, and VVIP transport, followed by MRO activities.
Safran Helicopter Engines has been HAL’s partner for the purpose of propelling its helicopters. This partnership began with the Artouste engines, which were utilized in the Cheetah and Chetak models. Subsequently, the ALH, LCH, and LUH were powered by the Shakti engine and its variants. The current partnership advances this long-standing partnership to the next level by collaborating on the design and development of contemporary, state-of-the-art helicopter engines that are designed for use in medium-lift helicopters.
