Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines (SAFHAL) have entered into an airframe contract to jointly design, develop, manufacture, supply, and support a new generation of high-power engines named ‘Aravalli’. These engines will power India’s 13-ton Medium Lift class Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL. The name ‘Aravalli’, inspired by India’s majestic mountain range, symbolises the nation’s aspirations for achieving self-reliance in critical engine technologies. The contract was signed by Mr S Anbuvelan, CEO (HAL Helicopters), Mr Olivier Savin, Director, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and EVP, Sales & Marketing, Safran Helicopter Engines and Mr S K Mehta, Director, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and Executive Finance Director, HAL.
Mr Cedric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, expressed pride in collaborating with HAL on this strategic project, building on 25 years of successful partnership between Safran and HAL. This project not only strengthens the collaboration with HAL but also enhances the strategic relationship between India and France. By combining their expertise and resources, the two companies are committed to ensuring the success of the IMRH and DBMRH programmes, while also contributing to the growth of India’s aerospace and defence sector. Safran remains fully dedicated to its customers in India and is eager to design, produce, and support these new, efficient helicopter engines.
SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, is dedicated to the design, development, production, sales, and support of new-generation helicopter engines in India. This partnership marks a significant milestone in India’s aerospace and defence sector, aiming to enhance the nation’s self-reliance in helicopter engine technology.
Under this strategic contract, SAFHAL will collaborate with its parent companies on cutting-edge engine technologies, ensuring superior performance, reliability, and operational efficiency. This partnership will involve state-of-the-art design, advanced manufacturing processes, and rigorous testing protocols to meet the highest global standards.
IMRH is a new 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces. A naval version, the 12.5-ton DBMRH, is also being developed for the Indian Navy. The engines will be designed to operate in the diverse and challenging environments where these helicopters are deployed. Future extensions to the civil market for offshore operations, utility, VVIP transport, and more are also planned, followed by MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) activities.
