HAL and SAFHAL Sign Pioneering Contract for Advanced Helicopter Engines

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. have signed a pivotal airframer contract for the joint development and production of 'Aravalli' high-power engines for India's new generation helicopters. This partnership aims to bolster India's self-reliance in aerospace and defense technology.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. have inked a crucial airframer contract to jointly design, develop, manufacture, and supply the 'Aravalli' high-power engine. These engines are aimed at the 13-ton Medium Lift class, Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both projects led by HAL.

The contract signing was formalized by S Anbuvelan, CEO (Helicopter Complex) at HAL, and Olivier Savin, Director, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines, along with SK Mehta, Executive Director (Finance) at HAL. HAL's Chairman and Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, emphasized the significance of this collaboration in advancing India's technological self-reliance in aerospace and defense.

Cedric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, highlighted the importance of leveraging combined expertise to ensure the success of the IMRH and DBMRH programs while fostering growth in India's aerospace sector. Goubet voiced pride in continuing the 25-year partnership with HAL, underscoring the strategic bond between India and France.

SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, will spearhead the design, development, production, sales, and support of these advanced helicopter engines, significantly contributing to India's Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative. The collaboration aims for superior performance and operational efficiency, adhering to high global standards through innovative design, advanced manufacturing, and rigorous testing.

Safran has been HAL's go-to partner for helicopter engines, starting with the Artouste engines in Cheetah and Chetak helicopters, and advancing to the Shakti engines for ALH, LCH, and LUH. This new agreement elevates their partnership, focusing on engines for Medium Lift Helicopters.

The IMRH, designed for the Indian Armed Forces, and its naval counterpart, the DBMRH, will both benefit from these high-power engines. Future civil applications including offshore operations, utility, and VVIP transport, as well as MRO activities, are also envisioned under this strategic cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)