SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
HAL Chairman C B Ananthakrishnan revealed that after thorough discussions with the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, the combined requirements for the IMRH stand at 419 units. This new 12-13-ton class medium-weight helicopter is set to replace the aging Mi-17 series helicopters currently in service.
Out of the total 419 IMRH units, 66 are designated as Deck-Borne Multi-Role Helicopters (DB-MRH) for the Indian Navy. These maritime helicopters will feature a higher all-up weight and customized configurations to meet the specific operational demands of naval missions. The remaining 353 IMRH units will be allocated to the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army, primarily to replace the Mi-17 series medium helicopters, some of which are nearing obsolescence.
On July 8, 2022, HAL signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Safran Helicopter Engines to establish a joint venture company. This collaboration aims to develop, produce, sell, and support the new generation helicopter engines for the IMRH, including its naval variant. The partnership with Safran Helicopter Engines ensures that the IMRH will be equipped with state-of-the-art propulsion systems, enhancing its performance and reliability.
The introduction of the IMRH is a crucial step towards addressing the obsolescence of the Mi-17 series helicopters, some of which have been in service for several decades. By replacing these ageing platforms, the IMRH will ensure that the Indian Armed Forces maintain their operational readiness and effectiveness in various missions.
Key Features of the IMRH
The IMRH is designed to be a versatile platform capable of performing a wide range of missions across different terrains and environments. Here are some of the key features:
Medium Weight Class: The IMRH falls into the 12-13-ton class, making it suitable for various roles, including troop transport, cargo lift, search and rescue, and medical evacuation.
Multi-Role Capability: The helicopter will serve the diverse needs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The DB-MRH variant for the Navy will be specially customized for maritime operations, with higher all-up weight and advanced avionics.
Modern Avionics and Systems: Equipped with cutting-edge avionics and systems, the IMRH will offer superior performance, situational awareness, and operational efficiency.
Enhanced Safety and Reliability: The collaboration with Safran Helicopter Engines will ensure that the IMRH is powered by advanced engines, providing enhanced safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
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