HAL and Safran ink deal for joint development, manufacture of new-generation copter engine

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a contract for the joint design, development, manufacture, supply and lifecycle support of a new-generation 3,500–4,000 ‘shaft horsepower’(shp) helicopter engine “Aravalli” .

The Design & Development of Aravalli engine is expected to be completed by 2032–33 while awaiting approval of Acceptance of Necessity (AON) — which is formal nod to begin the acquisition process — and Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for IMRH & DBMRH.

The engine, which will be a first in the aviation history and co-produced through their 50:50 joint venture SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd., will power HAL’s upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH). Both the variants of helicopters have beyond military application potential, including offshore transportation, utility missions and VVIP transport, opening avenues for future civil aerospace opportunities, HAL said in a statement on Wednesday.

The engine will be jointly developed by both the partners on a 50:50 basis and manufactured by SAFHAL at Tumakuru, Karnataka. The program will provide HAL, access to core engine technologies including the High Pressure Compressor, power turbine, fuel and oil systems components, accessory gearbox and engine external systems capabilities that are critical for developing future generations of indigenous aero-engines, said the leading state-owned aerospace company.

The Aravalli program marks an important transition from licensed production to joint development of a high-power helicopter engine, giving India an opportunity to build deeper capabilities in critical propulsion technologies.

The program will enable HAL to gain expertise and intellectual property in the areas of engine design undertaken by HAL, while Indian engineers will work alongside Safran engineers throughout the development programme, as per the issued statement.

According to the HAL, this will provide exposure to international design methodologies, testing practices and certification requirements. The knowledge and experience developed through Aravalli can provide a foundation for future indigenous aero-engine development programs, the company stated.

The program is expected to generate benefits across the wider aerospace ecosystem. It will create opportunities for Indian industry in advanced engine manufacturing areas such as raw materials, precision machining and castings, while also supporting the development of indigenous Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities.

The program represents a significant investment in India’s long-term capability to design, develop and manufacture advanced helicopter engines and strengthens the technological foundation for future-generation rotorcraft programs and is expected to generate significant revenue.