Aravalli engine symbolises ambitions to achieve greater self-reliance in critical aerospace propulsion technologies
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the largest aerospace and defence company in India, and French aircraft engine maker Safran Helicopter Engines, have signed a contract with Safhal Helicopter Engines (Safhal), their joint venture, to design, develop, manufacture, supply and provide lifecycle support for a new-generation high-power helicopter engine, named ‘Aravalli’, strengthening indigenous aerospace propulsion capabilities.
In a press statement, HAL says the engine, in the 3,500-4,000 shaft horsepower (shp) power class, has been selected to power its upcoming 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
According to the statement, named after one of the oldest mountain ranges of the world, the Aravalli engine symbolises ambitions to achieve greater self-reliance in critical aerospace propulsion technologies and strengthen indigenous capabilities for future-generation rotorcraft programmes.
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The statement says that Safhal will leverage the complementary expertise of both parent companies across advanced engine design, manufacturing, testing and product support, in line with international aerospace standards.
Aravalli is a next-generation helicopter engine jointly developed by HAL and Safran
“Through this collaborative programme with Safhal and Safran Helicopter Engines, we are creating a strong foundation for powering next-generation Indian helicopter platforms. The Aravalli engine programme will not only support the operational requirements of the IMRH and DBMRH but will also contribute meaningfully to the development of a robust domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem,” says Ravi K, Chairman and Managing Director, HAL.
“We are delighted to deepen our long-standing partnership with HAL through this landmark programme. Building on decades of successful cooperation, this initiative reflects our shared commitment to innovation, technology development and industrial excellence. This is the first time Safran Helicopter Engines has taken up co-development of an engine in such a power class,” says Cédric Goubet, Chief Executive Officer, Safran Helicopter Engines.
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Beyond military applications, the engine programme also offers potential opportunities in the civil market, including offshore transportation, utility missions and passenger transport. The programme is also expected to further develop indigenous maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India.
The Aravalli programme builds on the long-standing partnership between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines, which began with Artouste engines powering the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. This was followed by the Shakti engine family, which powers Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) of HAL.
