SOURCE: UNI
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd (SAFHAL) have signed an agreement to create a powerful new engine called ‘Aravalli’ for India’s next-generation helicopters. This engine will power two major helicopter projects: the 13-ton Medium Lift Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both designed by HAL. The ‘Aravalli’ engine is named after India’s famous Aravalli mountain range, symbolizing the country’s push towards self-reliance in high-tech defence manufacturing.
This engine is being developed to meet the needs of the Indian Armed Forces, providing advanced capabilities and ensuring that the helicopters can perform well in challenging conditions. The contract was signed by top executives from both companies: S Anbuvelan, CEO of HAL’s Helicopter Complex; Olivier Savin, Director of SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and EVP of Sales and Marketing at Safran Helicopter Engines; and SK Mehta, Director of SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and Executive Director of Finance at HAL. Speaking on the partnership, HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, called it a major milestone for India’s aerospace and defence sectors.
“This collaboration will not only boost the capabilities of the IMRH and DBMRH helicopters but also help India develop its own defence technologies,” he said. Cedric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, added, “We are proud to work with HAL on this important project. Our long-standing partnership is growing stronger, and together, we will contribute to India’s aerospace industry.” SAFHAL is a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines (France) and HAL. It focuses on developing advanced helicopter engines in India to support the country’s goal of achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence technology.
This collaboration will use cutting-edge design, modern manufacturing techniques, and strict testing standards to produce engines that meet the highest international quality. The IMRH and DBMRH helicopters will be equipped to operate in diverse and challenging environments, catering to the needs of the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. There are also plans to extend the engines’ use to civil markets, including offshore operations, VIP transport, and utility services, followed by maintenance and repair activities. Safran Helicopter Engines has been powering HAL’s helicopters for decades, starting with older models like the Cheetah and Chetak and continuing with the Shakti engine used in more recent helicopters like the ALH and LCH.
This new project takes their partnership to the next level, focusing on developing modern, efficient engines that will set new standards in helicopter performance. This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL marks a significant step forward in India’s journey towards becoming self-sufficient in high-power engine technology, ensuring that the country’s defence capabilities are stronger and more independent.