Aero India 2025 witnessed the unveiling of a groundbreaking achievement in aviation technology - the Aravalli engine. Developed through a collaborative effort between Safran Helicopter Engines and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), this new engine is set to power India's next-generation military helicopters.
The Aravalli engine, aptly named after the majestic mountain range in north-west India, has been chosen to propel the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), a 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed by HAL to meet the diverse needs of the Indian Armed Forces.
A naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), weighing 12.5 tons, is also under development for the Indian Navy. This naming convention follows Safran's tradition of associating their helicopter engines with prominent geographical features, signifying the engine's importance and its intended capabilities.
This new engine promises to significantly enhance the capabilities of India's military helicopter fleet. Designed for both land and naval operations, the Aravalli engine boasts high efficiency, power, and durability, ensuring that Indian forces have a reliable and versatile platform for a wide array of missions. The collaboration between Safran Helicopter Engines and HAL brings together cutting-edge technology and expertise, resulting in an engine tailored to the specific operational requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
The IMRH, powered by the Aravalli engine, is a crucial project for the Indian Air Force and Army. It is designed to replace aging helicopters and take on roles such as troop transport, combat search and rescue, and logistics support. With a substantial payload capacity and the ability to operate in challenging environments, including high-altitude regions, the IMRH will be a valuable asset to India's defence capabilities.
The DBMRH, the naval version of the IMRH, will operate from aircraft carriers and other naval platforms. Equipped with the Aravalli engine, it will provide the Indian Navy with a robust and efficient solution for anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations.
By incorporating the Aravalli engine, both the IMRH and DBMRH are poised to deliver superior performance and reliability across a range of demanding operational scenarios. This will undoubtedly enhance the operational flexibility and effectiveness of India's defence forces.
