HAL and Safran Sign Contract to Jointly Develop 'Aravalli' Helicopter Engine

State-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a contract for the joint design, development, manufacture, supply, and lifecycle support of a new-generation helicopter engine named "Aravalli".

The engine, falling in the 3,500–4,000 shaft horsepower (shp) category, will be co-produced through SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd., the 50:50 joint venture between the two partners. It will be manufactured at SAFHAL's facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka.

According to HAL, the Aravalli engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH). Both helicopter variants hold potential beyond military applications, including utility missions, offshore transportation, and VVIP transport, which can open avenues for future civil aerospace opportunities.

The design and development of the Aravalli engine is expected to be completed by 2032–33. This timeline is subject to the approval of the Acceptance of Necessity (AON)—which acts as the formal nod to begin the acquisition process—and clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the IMRH and DBMRH programs.

The partnership marks a structural transition from licensed production to the joint development of a high-power helicopter engine. The initiative will grant HAL access to core engine technologies, including the High Pressure Compressor, power turbine, fuel and oil systems components, accessory gearbox, and engine external capabilities. These elements are critical for developing future generations of indigenous aero-engines.

Under the collaboration, Indian engineers will work alongside Safran engineers throughout the development program, providing local teams with exposure to international design methodologies, testing practices, and certification requirements. HAL stated that the intellectual property and expertise gained through the Aravalli project will establish a foundational base for future indigenous aero-engine development programs.

Beyond design and manufacturing, the program is projected to create broader economic and industrial benefits. It is expected to generate opportunities for the wider Indian aerospace sector in advanced manufacturing areas such as raw materials, precision machining, and castings. Additionally, the initiative will support the development of indigenous Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities while generating significant revenue.

"The partnership between HAL and Safran for the joint development of the Aravalli engine marks a significant shift in India's aerospace sector, moving away from traditional licensed production toward core technological capability. By securing access to critical components like high-pressure compressors and gaining intellectual property through a 50:50 joint venture, Indian engineering teams will build deep competencies in advanced propulsion. Furthermore, local manufacturing at Tumakuru and the integration of domestic supply chains for precision machining and MRO capabilities will create long-term economic value and strengthen the foundation for future indigenous rotorcraft programs." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes