Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a contract through their joint venture SAFHAL Helicopter Engines to develop a new-generation helicopter engine named Aravalli.
The engine will be in the 3,500–4,000 shaft horsepower class and is intended to power HAL’s 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
The agreement marks an important step in the development of an indigenous propulsion solution for India’s next-generation medium-lift helicopter programmes. The partnership will combine HAL’s aircraft development and manufacturing capabilities with Safran’s experience in helicopter engine design and technology.
The Aravalli programme will cover engine development, manufacturing and lifecycle support. It is expected to contribute to India’s efforts to increase domestic capability in aerospace propulsion and reduce reliance on imported engines.
The engine could also have applications beyond military helicopters. The companies are considering potential future uses in civil missions, including offshore transportation, utility operations and VIP transport.
The programme is expected to support the development of India’s wider aerospace manufacturing and maintenance ecosystem. Local production and future maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities could create additional opportunities for Indian suppliers and service providers.
HAL and Safran have a long-standing relationship in the helicopter sector, with Safran engines powering several Indian helicopter platforms. The Aravalli programme takes this partnership into the development of a higher-power engine for a new generation of Indian rotorcraft.
For HAL, the engine programme is closely linked to its plans for the IMRH and DBMRH. For Safran, the partnership provides an opportunity to expand its industrial cooperation in India while supporting the country’s growing aerospace ambitions.
The development of Aravalli could therefore become a significant milestone in India’s drive to build a more self-reliant helicopter industry covering airframes, propulsion, manufacturing and long-term support.
