Aviation

Indian Sarang Team to Make Aerobatic Debut at Egypt Airshow 2024

For the first time, the Indian-built Dhruv helicopter, flown by the Sarang Aerobatic Team, will showcase its impressive aerobatic maneuvers at the Egypt International Airshow 2024.

Scheduled to take place from September 3rd to 5th at Al-Alamein International Airport, this marks a significant debut for the Sarang team at this prestigious event. The Sarang Team, known for their stunning aerobatic displays, previously garnered acclaim at the Dubai and Singapore Airshows, captivating aviation enthusiasts worldwide.

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The team, flying the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk1, will demonstrate their precision and skill, representing India’s aviation prowess and the spirit of ‘Atmanirbharta’—self-reliance in defense technology.

Currently, the Dhruv helicopter is in service with the Indian Air Force and has also been exported to the Philippine Air Force. As part of their participation in the Egypt International Airshow, the Sarang team is being airlifted to the event by C-17 aircraft, fully equipped and ready to impress.

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This historic appearance not only highlights the Dhruv helicopter’s capabilities but also showcases India’s growing influence and excellence in the global aviation arena. The airshow will be a significant platform for the Sarang team to demonstrate the advanced technology and precision of Indian-built aircraft.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.