A recent investigation into the crash of an Indian Coast Guard Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) on January 5th in Porbandar has revealed a rare failure in the transmission system as the primary cause. This critical finding comes from officials close to the investigation who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The ill-fated ALH, designed and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), crashed during routine operations, leading to the tragic loss of two pilots and an aircrew diver. This incident prompted the immediate grounding of the entire Dhruv fleet, encompassing over 330 helicopters in service with various Indian agencies including the Coast Guard, Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Experts have identified the failed component as a crucial part of the transmission system responsible for controlling the helicopter's rotor. Such failures are exceptionally uncommon, emphasizing the severity of this incident.
To thoroughly investigate the cause of the failure, a high-powered panel has been assembled, comprising specialists from HAL, the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance. This panel is tasked with conducting a comprehensive analysis of the failed component and is expected to deliver its final report within four weeks.
The grounding of the Dhruv fleet has significantly impacted operational capabilities, especially for critical missions like search and rescue, medical evacuations, and coastal surveillance. The investigation's outcome will likely result in substantial modifications to the helicopter's transmission system, and potentially broader design changes to ensure the safety and reliability of the Dhruv fleet.
This is not the first incident involving the ALH. In fact, around 15 accidents have occurred over the past five years, raising concerns about its safety record. Another ALH crash occurred near Porbandar last September, also resulting in the loss of two pilots and an aircrew diver. While that incident led to a temporary grounding and inspection of the Coast Guard's ALH fleet, the current grounding is far more extensive and involves all Dhruv helicopters across different branches of the Indian armed forces.
The Dhruv, also known by its armed variant name Rudra, is a versatile multi-mission helicopter that has been a workhorse for India's defence forces for over 20 years. It is frequently deployed in challenging environments, including high-altitude operations. The recent crash and subsequent grounding have underscored the need for a comprehensive review of the helicopter's design and safety features to prevent future accidents and ensure the continued effectiveness of India's defence capabilities.
