New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is expected to consider approval for the design development of the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), with the proposed first-phase allocation of ₹13,500 crore having been cleared by the costing committee, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The proposal is expected to move before the CCS for consideration, with the initial phase focused on the design development of the indigenous medium-lift helicopter being developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
HAL Developing Indigenous Multi-Role Helicopter
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing the IMRH as an indigenous medium-lift helicopter for the Indian armed forces.
The helicopter is being developed for:
- Indian Air Force (IAF)
- Indian Army
The 13-tonne helicopter is intended to meet the operational requirements of the armed forces and eventually replace the IAF’s ageing fleet of Russian-origin Mi-17 helicopters.
A potential CCS approval would move the IMRH programme closer to the detailed development stage and strengthen India’s focus on domestically designed and manufactured military platforms.
Read also: Hindustan Aeronautics’s 50% Joint Venture Infotech HAL Limited Dissolved After NCLT Order
IMRH Programme Linked to New-Generation Aravalli Engine
The IMRH programme is closely linked to the development of a new-generation helicopter engine.
Last month, HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines signed the final contract with their joint venture, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd, for the development and manufacture of the Aravalli high-power turboshaft engine.
The Aravalli engine has been selected to power:
- 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH)
- Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), the naval variant of the platform
Both helicopters are planned as twin-engine platforms, making the timely development, integration and testing of the Aravalli engine an important factor in the overall timelines of the helicopter programmes.
Aravalli Engine to Power IMRH and Naval Variant
The Aravalli is being developed for medium-lift helicopters in the 3,500–4,000 shaft-horsepower class.
The engine development contract covers its complete product lifecycle, including:
- Design and development
- Manufacturing
- Supply
- Lifecycle support
The successful development and integration of the engine will therefore be an important milestone before the IMRH and DBMRH can progress towards operational service.
IMRH to Strengthen India’s Indigenous Defence Capabilities
The IMRH programme forms part of India’s broader push to develop advanced military platforms within the country.
With HAL leading the helicopter design and the Aravalli engine being developed through the HAL-Safran joint venture, the programme is expected to contribute to the growth of India’s domestic aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The proposed CCS approval for the ₹13,500 crore design development phase could provide further momentum to the indigenous helicopter programme.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Established in 1940, HAL is one of India’s leading aerospace and defence companies, engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, repair and overhaul of aircraft, helicopters, engines and related systems.
