India officially launched the new next-generation civil helicopter, DHRUV-NG, at a ceremony in Bangalore. The event was attended by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and executives of 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 tons.
The aircraft is powered by Indian Shakti 1H1C turboshaft engines, capable of speeds of up to 285 km/h and seating for up to 14 passengers.
Key innovations include a fully digital cockpit with an AS4-compliant glass cockpit, a modern avionics system and improvements to the vibration dampening systems to increase onboard comfort.
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Of Shakti 1H1Cengine was developed as a joint project between HAL in Safran Helicopter Engines.
Development started between 2002 and 2003 with the aim of replacing the less powerful Turbomeca TM 333-2B2, which was used in the Dhruv-helicopters.
The base model Ardiden 1H1, known as Shakti in India, received European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification in 2009 and has been produced locally since then.
Designed for both the domestic and export markets, the DHRUV-NG is seen as a key element in India’s strategy to expand the civil helicopter sector. Speaking at 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 aircraft.
According to HAL, the new helicopter is considered one of the most important projects for strengthening the national rotor wing industry. The aircraft contributes to reducing dependence on imported technologies and developing local industrial capabilities in the aviation sector.
Source and images: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Content created with AI support and reviewed by editors.
