India officially unveiled its new next-generation civilian helicopter, the DHRUV-NG, at a ceremony in Bangalore. The event was attended by the country’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and executives from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The DHRUV-NG belongs to the class of light twin-engine helicopters, with a maximum take-off weight of 5.5 tonnes.
The helicopter is equipped with Indian-made Shakti 1H1C turboshaft engines, which can reach speeds of up to 285 km/h and carry up to 14 passengers.
Among the most important innovations are a fully digital cabin with glass cockpit in accordance with the AS4 standard, a modern avionics system and improvements in vibration damping systems, aimed at increased comfort on board.
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Shakti 1H1C– engine was developed within the framework of a joint project between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines.
Development began between 2002 and 2003, with the aim of replacing the less powerful Turbomeca TM 333-2B2 used on Dhruv-helicopters.
The base model Ardiden 1H1, known in India as the Shakti, received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in 2009 and has since been produced locally.
Developed for both the domestic and export markets, the DHRUV-NG is considered a key element in India’s strategy to expand the civil helicopter sector. During the event, Ram Mohan Naidu stated that India needs around 1,000 to 1,500 helicopters, as the country’s current fleet is estimated at around 300 units.
According to HAL, the new helicopter is considered one of the most important projects to strengthen the national industry for rotor-wing aircraft, contribute to reduced dependence on imported technology and develop local industrial capacities within the aviation sector.
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Source and images: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The content has been prepared with support from KI and reviewed by the editors.
