Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a contract with their joint venture, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd., for the design, development, manufacture, supply and lifecycle support of a new-generation helicopter engine in the 3,500–4,000 shp power class.
Named Aravalli, the engine has been selected to power HAL’s upcoming 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
Named after one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli programme is intended to strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical aerospace propulsion technologies and build indigenous capabilities for future rotorcraft programmes.
SAFHAL, a joint venture between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines SAS, will combine the expertise of both parent companies across advanced engine design, manufacturing, testing and product support. The programme is expected to focus on performance, reliability, maintainability and operational effectiveness, while meeting international aerospace standards.
The contract marks a significant step in the development of India’s indigenous helicopter propulsion capability and is expected to strengthen the country’s wider aerospace and defence industrial base.
The Aravalli programme could also support future civil applications, including offshore transport, utility operations and VVIP transport. It is additionally expected to contribute to the expansion of indigenous maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India.
