Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and France’s Safran Helicopter Engines have entered into an agreement to jointly develop ‘Aravalli’, India’s first high-power helicopter engine. The engine is being designed for India’s next-generation 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
Aravalli Helicopter Engine: Key Highlights
- Developers: HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines.
- Joint venture: The programme is being undertaken through SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd (SAFHAL), a 50:50 joint venture between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines SAS.
- Power: The engine will deliver approximately 3,500–4,000 shaft horsepower.
- Manufacturing: SAFHAL will manufacture the engine at Tumakuru, Karnataka.
- Lifecycle support: The agreement also includes lifecycle support for the engine.
- Development timeline: Design development is expected to be completed by 2032–33.
- Name: ‘Aravalli’ is named after the Aravalli Range, one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges.
Why the Aravalli Programme Is Important
This is the first time a high-power helicopter engine will be designed and developed in India, marking a shift from merely producing engines under licence towards joint development of advanced propulsion technology.
The programme is expected to give HAL access to critical engine technologies, including:
- High-Pressure Compressor
- Power turbine
- Fuel and oil system components
- Accessory gearbox
- Engine external systems
It will also expose Indian engineers to international design methodologies, testing practices and certification requirements. The expertise gained could subsequently support the development of future indigenous aero-engines.
The programme represents a major investment in India’s long-term ability to design, develop and manufacture advanced helicopter engines. It is expected to strengthen the technological base for future rotorcraft programmes and generate significant revenue.
India–France Strategic Partnership
The Aravalli project adds a new dimension to the longstanding India–France strategic relationship by combining expertise from both countries to develop advanced propulsion systems.
The joint programme involves the design and development of a state-of-the-art turboshaft engine tailored to the requirements of medium-lift rotorcraft for Indian and potentially global markets.
Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH)
The IMRH is a new 13-tonne multi-role helicopter being designed by HAL for the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
Its naval counterpart is the 12.5-tonne Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), being developed for the Indian Navy.
The Aravalli engines will need to operate reliably in the diverse and demanding environments in which these helicopters are expected to be deployed.
Before the IMRH and DBMRH programmes can proceed, they will require clearances from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) and the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).
Potential Civil Applications
The helicopters could eventually have applications beyond military operations. Potential uses include:
- Offshore transportation
- Utility missions
- VVIP transportation
- Other future civil aerospace applications
This could open additional opportunities for India’s indigenous helicopter and aerospace industry.