HAL–Safran announce joint development of “Aravalli” medium helicopter engine

HAL announces a major step towards indigenous helicopter propulsion capability

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines, through their 50:50 joint venture SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd., have signed a contract for the joint design, development, manufacture, supply and lifecycle support of a new-generation 3,500–4,000 shp helicopter engine, named “Aravalli”.

This is the first time that a high-power helicopter engine is being designed and developed in India. 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 Aravalli engine will power HAL’s upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH). IMRH & DBMRH has potential applications beyond military helicopters, including offshore transportation, utility missions and VVIP transport, opening avenues for future civil aerospace opportunities.

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

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. 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 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 Design & Development of Aravalli engine is expected to be completed by 2032–33. while awaiting approval of AON & CCS for IMRH & DBMRH. 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.