HAL and SAFHAL to develop next-gen 'Aravalli' helicopter engines for India’s defence needs
- In Reports
- 04:21 PM, Aug 31, 2024
- Myind Staff
In a significant move to enhance India’s aerospace and defence capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has entered into a landmark agreement with SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt (SAFHAL) to develop the next generation of high-power helicopter engines, named ‘Aravalli.’ This partnership is set to play a critical role in supporting HAL’s Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH) platforms, both of which are vital for the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.
The ‘Aravalli’ engine project, named after India’s ancient mountain range, represents a step towards self-reliance in crucial defence technologies. The contract was officially signed by key officials, including S. Anbuvelan, CEO of HAL’s Helicopter Complex; Olivier Savin, Director of SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and EVP of Sales & Marketing at Safran Helicopter Engines; and S. K. Mehta, Director of SAFHAL and Executive Director of Finance at HAL.
Commenting on this partnership, C. B. Ananthakrishnan, Chairman and Managing Director (Addl. Charge) of HAL, stated, “This collaboration with SAFHAL marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards achieving technological self-reliance in India’s aerospace and defence sector. The ‘Aravalli’ engine will not only enhance the capabilities of the IMRH and DBMRH platforms but will also contribute significantly to the broader goal of indigenous development of critical defence technologies.”
The IMRH is a 13-ton multi-role helicopter, while the DBMRH is its 12.5-ton naval variant, both designed to operate in challenging environments to meet the diverse operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces. The development of the ‘Aravalli’ engines under this contract will ensure these helicopters deliver superior performance, reliability, and operational efficiency.
Cedric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are extremely proud to collaborate with HAL on this strategic project, capitalising on 25 years of successful partnership between Safran and HAL. Our combined expertise and resources will ensure the success of the IMRH and DBMRH programs, while contributing to the growth of India’s aerospace and defence sector.”
In addition to military applications, the collaboration aims to extend the use of ‘Aravalli’ engines to the civil market, including offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The project will also focus on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities, further bolstering India’s Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in aerospace technologies.
SAFHAL, a joint venture between Safran Helicopter Engines SAS and HAL, has been a key player in advancing helicopter engine technology in India. This partnership builds on a long history of collaboration, which began with the Artouste engines for Cheetah and Chetak helicopters and continued with the Shakti engines used in ALH, LCH, and LUH platforms. The ‘Aravalli’ project is the latest chapter in this enduring partnership, aimed at delivering state-of-the-art engines that meet the highest global standards, thereby reinforcing India’s position in the global aerospace industry.
Image source: Financial Express
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