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Meet India’s first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

The Indian aerospace sector is gaining international attention. Recently, Indian helicopter fighter jets demonstrated incredible performance at various airshows, demonstrating the strength of the aircraft’s manufacturing and supply.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Meet India’s first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

With the introduction of the IMRH, HAL will expand its Helicopter Product offerings from 03 Ton to 13 Ton weight class, as well as address India’s requirement to replace the ageing Mi-17 helicopters, which are due for replacement progressively beginning in 2028. HAL intends to target the global helicopter market by benchmarking the proposed IMRH against its current helicopters, which include the Mi-17, S-92, AW-101, NH-90, and EC-725.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

The Rotory wing R and D center played an important role in the Indian aerospace sector. The HAL Journey of building helicopters began in 1965 with the introduction of the Chetak, and by 1970, with the assistance of France Aérospatiale as a licensee, the Cheetah helicopter was built.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Mockup Design of IMRH at AeroIndia

Further, in 2002, It introduced the ALH Dhru, and in 2013, it introduced the ALH Rudra, and in 2017, it launched the Light Combat Helicopter, and in 2019, it launched the Light Utility Helicopter, and now it is planning to build the 13 tonne weighing multirole helicopter. which is set to replace the air force’s MI-17 helicopter

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HAL’s rotory wings design and research Centre in Bangalore designed and developed the helicopter. In the beginning, three prototypes will be created: one for the structural test specimen and one for the ground test vehicle. Certifications are expected 7 years after the project is sanctioned.

HAL’s Rotory wings R & D center in Bangalore designed and developed the helicopter. In the beginning, three prototypes will be created: one for the structural test specimen and one for the ground test vehicle. Certifications are expected 7 years after the project is sanctioned.

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Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

HAL has already constructed a mechanism system, an air frame, blades, and a slew of other component-designed 3D concept parts that are fitted into the concept mhttps://jetlinemarvel.net/indian-air-force-jets-5000-sorties-72-hours-western-front/odel. It is a Utility and Armed variant designed for unrivalled performance at high altitude for the Indian air force and army.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Rotor Mechanism, Shri Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

The navalized version will also have a longer range and a greater payload capacity. HAL estimates that over 314 rotocraft of the same class will be required to replace the existing Mil Mi-17 helicopters in service in India.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Cockpit instrument panel, Shri Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

The helicopter is expected to have a maximum take-off weight of up to 14.2 tonnes and a crew of 24 to 36 people in various configurations. The helicopter will have a two-bladed tail rotor and a five-bladed main rotor with a diameter of 21.2 metres. MRH will be made up of 75% domestic content but will be powered by an imported 2000kW turboshaft engine. At sea level, the payload capacity will be 4 tonnes, and at 13,000 feet, it will be 1.5 tonnes. The aircraft will have two weapons wings with four hard points for up to 1,600 kilograms of armament. two inboard for a total loading capacity of 500 kg and two outboard for a total loading capacity of 300 kg. It can reach a top speed of 260 km/h.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Wind Tunnel testing, Shri Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

The aircraft has completed the preliminary design phase and is expected to be approved for further development in early 2022. The first flight is scheduled for four years after the development project began, with the introduction scheduled for 2028-29.

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Specifications.

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  • It comes up with 5 blades.  it has 19.83 fuselage Length and width will be 2.70 meter and fuselage height is around 2.41.  further the width including with rotor is 4.74 meter.
  • Max take of weight is 13 tons,
  • Max permissible take off weight 14.2 tons,
  • Service ceiling is 6500 meter means up to 21325.46 feet.
  • HOGE ceiling 4500 meter,
  • It has 2000 kg of internal fuel tank endurance for 3 hours,
  • It has 24 seats for default configurations and high density is up to 36 troops it can carry for mission.
  • It has 260 km/h cruise speed.
  • it can carry 4000 kg of payload at sea level.
  • weapons station has 4 hard points inboard has two 500 kg loading and outboard two is for 300 kg loading capacity.
  • It has two engines which combine produces 2000 kW of the power.
  • it has 800 km of the range and which can have the 3 hours of the flight endurance.
  • Rotor dia is around 21.2 meter.

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The HAL is currently releasing a global tender for the component requirements for the new Multipurpose helicopter. Keeping in mind that the government encourages and invites local suppliers to take on the design and construction of HAL components.

Meet India's first 13-tonne multirole defense helicopter.

Final schematic design of IMRH , Shri Syam Nath G, Chief Designer (Projects) explains about project at Aero India 2021

HAL has already constructed the rotor system’s component mechanism. It has undergone virtual stress analysis with the aid of software, and it has a transmission system or gearbox that weighs one tonne and is built in bulk using die casting techniques.

HAL is looking for a special engine for the helicopter that can generate 2000 kw of power. As a result, once the project begins, the design suitability in the air frame will be updated to OEM during the prototypes.

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Typically, few medium helicopters do not have retractable landing gear built into the airframe, but the HAL already has retractable and non-retractable try cycle landing gears.

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The Tricycle has fixed crashworthy wheel landing gear, passive steering, and a nose wheel lock, as well as a hydraulic wheel brake with a parking brake.

It has two electric power generators and an auxiliary power unit that can restart the power supply in the event of an emergency.  Even HAL claims that the battery will provide backup power for the helicopter’s other functions during the 30-minute flight during emergency.

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A broad overview of proposed airborne equipment and sensors was presented, emphasising the opportunities for private sector participation in the proposed IMRH programme, which will pave the way for India’s self-reliance, in line with the Government of India’s initiative of Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan.

PM Modi hands over made-in-India light combat helicopters to IAF

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There are already a few medium lift helicopters in service around the world, such as the Russian MI17, which has a capacity of 13 tonnes, the Sikorsky S-92, which has a capacity of 12.9 tonnes, the August Westland 101, which has a capacity of 15.6 tonnes, the NH90, which has a capacity of 10.6 tonnes, and the EC 725 eurocopter, which has a capacity of 11.2 tonnes. Indian multirole will be one of the future sources of additional support for Indian defence.

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Taking into account the ministry’s approval of the project. The first flight is expected to take place within four years, and the operation clearance is valid for six years. If the project begins in 2022, HAL will likely phase out legacy MLH by 2029.

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Furthermore, this helicopter can be used for a variety of purposes, including cargo transport, ground vehicle transport, VIP transport, and many others. Once this helicopter is inducted, HAL will become a major Aerospace market key player in the Asia region, building helicopters ranging in size from 3 to 13 tonnes. This will be another victory for the Indian aviation industry.

HAL signs contract with Mauritius for export of advanced light helicopters

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India is already developing its own light and medium fighter jets with 5.5 generation features, as well as commercial aircraft Dornier 228 and In associated with Airbus building C295.

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Is India planning to purchase more Chinook helicopters?

What do you think of India’s new Multirole Helicopter? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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#HAL: #IMRH #IndianAirForce #MODindia

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He is an aviation journalist and the founder of Jetline Marvel. Dawal gained a comprehensive understanding of the commercial aviation industry.  He has worked in a range of roles for more than 9 years in the aviation and aerospace industry. He has written more than 1700 articles in the aerospace industry. When he was 19 years old, he received a national award for his general innovations and holds the patent. He completed two postgraduate degrees simultaneously, one in Aerospace and the other in Management. Additionally, he authored nearly six textbooks on aviation and aerospace tailored for students in various educational institutions. jetlinem4(at)gmail.com

Aerospace

The LCA Tejas Aircraft Crash: Understanding the Reasons – Air Marshal GS Bedi’s Perspective

The LCA Tejas Aircraft Crash: Understanding the Reasons - Air Marshal GS Bedi's Perspective

Air Marshal GS Bedi, a renowned fighter jet pilot and experienced crew member, recently participated in a YouTube interview with Def Talks hosted by Aadi. During the interview, he provided insights into the recent Tejas aircraft crash in Rajasthan, which marks one of the first crashes involving an aircraft from the Tejas family since its production commenced 20 years ago.

Numerous questions have emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding the Tejas aircraft crash and the potential causes of failure. Air Marshal Bedi adeptly addressed these concerns by outlining possible scenarios that could have led to the crash. His expertise shed light on the complexities involved in such incidents and provided valuable perspective on the aviation community’s understanding of the event.

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At the outset, Tejas lacked a simulator and a trainer aircraft for initial training. However, pilots were provided with simulation trials before flying the Tejas aircraft. Initial reviews indicated stability during flight, with the aircraft maintaining a straight glide. However, there was an incident where the aircraft experienced an engine malfunction, prompting the pilot to eject safely.

Pilot Safe Ejections

The decision to eject was made as a precautionary measure, considering the aircraft’s low altitude and steep descent angle. With the aircraft’s altitude dropping rapidly, attempting to balance and land it was deemed too risky. Ejecting ensured the pilot’s safety, as deploying a parachute at such low altitudes could have been disastrous.

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He chose to eject to ensure a safer distance from the ground. The aircraft is at an angle of less than 3 degrees during the approach. At a height of 100 meters, the aircraft is nearly 20 times its length away from the ground. This means the touchdown point will be approximately 4 kilometers ahead.

However, as the altitude decreases, the approach becomes too short due to the rapid descent rate. Consequently, the pilot opts to eject rather than attempt to stabilize the aircraft for a ground landing. If he had not ejected, there’s a high probability that his parachute would have deployed at that low altitude.

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LCA Tejas engine Issue

Investigations revealed the engine malfunction was likely due to lubrication issues or other technical faults. Such split-second decisions underscore the potentially catastrophic outcomes that can result from technical failures.

The pilot involved was highly experienced and well-trained for airshow displays, suggesting timely decision-making. Nevertheless, accidents can stem from technical glitches, human errors, or unforeseen circumstances like bird strikes.

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Air Marshal Bedi emphasized the importance of pilots being trained for emergency situations, including ejecting from the aircraft when control is lost. Despite advancements in technology, technical issues remain unpredictable, necessitating ongoing learning and improvements in aircraft systems.

Today, the Tejas mk1A aircraft completed its inaugural flight at the Bangalore station, marking the dawn of a new, advanced version of the Tejas aircraft. This iteration boasts enhanced avionics and improved aircraft structure.

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Aerospace

China is secretly testing its next-generation medium combat helicopter Z21

China is secretly testing its next-generation medium combat helicopter Z21

China consistently keeps aviation enthusiasts surprised with its advancements in fighter jets and other aircraft. Leading the pack in Asia, China continuously pushes boundaries in developing domestically-built aircraft.

Recently, images circulating on the internet reveal China’s latest creation, the Z-21 helicopter. Resembling its predecessor, the Z-10, this helicopter boasts enhanced fighter capabilities. The emergence of these images sparks questions regarding the fate of plans to acquire Russian-made Ka-52K attack helicopters, particularly the naval version.

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Observing the helicopter in flight, it shares design elements with the Harbin Z-10, notably in the front fuselage and cockpit canopy. The wing stubs for weapon mounts exhibit similar shapes, though with less pronounced angular features. With a tandem seating arrangement, the Z-21 also draws comparisons to the Mil Mi-28, featuring an elongated body with five rotor blades and weapon bays on its sides.

The unveiling of the Z-21 has triggered speculation about its potential role in future military operations. Analysts suggest that beyond its firepower, its introduction could signal significant technological advancements. There’s particular interest in whether China will incorporate a ‘manned-unmanned teaming’ system akin to later Apache models, enabling the Z-21 to control armed drones for reconnaissance and attacks, reducing risks to the helicopter itself.

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The emergence of the Z-21 underscores China’s increasing military prowess and its commitment to developing cutting-edge weaponry. Its deployment and capabilities will be closely monitored, especially concerning regional security dynamics.

The helicopter presents a significant challenge to American-built Apache and other medium helicopters, boasting superior capacity for flying at higher altitudes and more powerful speed and combat capabilities, thus enhancing its effectiveness on the battlefield. On the other hand, amidst ongoing Indian border tensions, this aircraft is poised to play a crucial role in surveillance along the sensitive China border and beyond.

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Qantas Airbus A330 Makes Safe Landing After Engine Blowout

Woman spends tortuous three months trying to resolve huge Qantas errors

A Qantas Airbus A330 Aircraft, flight number QF781, has landed safely without incident in
Perth after the passengers on the Perth-bound flight reported hearing a ‘loud bang’ from one
side of the twin-engined plane engine. The Airbus A330 aircraft made a priority landing at
Perth Airport around 9:37pm local time on 25 March, arriving approximately 52 minutes
behind schedule.


Upon landing, emergency services met with the aircraft on the tarmac. However, the aircraft
taxied to the gate without assistance, with the passengers disembarking normally.
The ‘loud bang’ heard by passengers happened due to a mid-air engine blowout, therefore
resulting in the pilots having to manually shut off the affected engine, together with
requesting a priority landing into Perth Airport. Qantas also added in a statement that the
Airbus A330 aircraft was designed to operate with one engine too.

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Qantas QF781 is a daily scheduled flight from Melbourne to Perth, utilising the Airbus A330
on the route. The Aircraft in question is VH-EBA, an approximately 21 years aircraft,
equipped with 2 GE CF6 engines according to airfleets.net. The Airbus A330 have been a
frequent regional workhorse in Qantas’ fleet, connecting major australian cities with major
destinations within Asia. the Airbus A330 is also used on high-density domestic routes,
similar to QF781, from Melbourne to Perth.

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Engine Issues – Should you be concerned?


While engine issues are highly uncommon due to the stringent checks and quality control on
each component within the engine, there might still be exceptional occasions where such
incidents happen. However, while recognising the risks of dual engines, Aircraft
Manufacturers and Organisations have actually came up with standards so as to ensure that
an aircraft can also land on a single engine, similar to what we saw on QF781.


One of the most well known standard is Extended-range Twin-engine Operations
Performance Standards (ETOPS) which is an acronym for twin-engine operation in an
airspace further than one hour from a diversion airport at a designated one engine
inoperable speed. This ensures that twin-engined aircraft could safely operate routes over
water or remote land without an alternative airport near the flight path, which once required
aircraft with 3 or 4 engines to fly on that route.

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In this case, the Airbus A330 has been certified to fly ‘Beyond ETOPS 180’, and have
received ETOPS 240 certification, which is a certification to enable the twin-engined aircraft
to fly for up to a maximum of 240 minutes with 1 engine inoperative in a cruise condition.
Currently, most twin-engined widebody aircraft in operation would generally have an ETOPS
certification of at least ETOPS 180, with the new Airbus A321LR also having ETOPS 180
certification, therefore enabling the narrowbody to fly long haul flights.

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Aerospace

Boeing CEO Resigns Amid 737 MAX Crisis, Ignites Management Overhaul

Boeing CEO Resigns Amid 737 MAX Crisis, Ignites Management Overhaul

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun has announced his resignation amidst the ongoing 737 MAX crisis, signaling a significant top management shakeup at the aerospace giant.

While Calhoun will continue leading the company until the end of 2024, his decision comes amid mounting pressure following a series of setbacks, including the recent incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight. This departure coincides with the retirement of Boeing Commercial President and CEO Stan Deal, who is succeeded by Stephanie Pope, the current Chief Operating Officer.

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The announcement, made by Larry Kellner, boeing products chairman, outlines a broader restructuring within the company’s leadership. Steve Mollenkopf, a Boeing director since 2020 and former CEO of Qualcomm, will take over as chairman and lead the board in selecting a new CEO. This strategic move comes at a critical juncture as boeing airplanes
faces intense regulatory scrutiny and production constraints due to safety and quality issues.

The market’s initial response to the news was positive, with Boeing’s shares rising by 2 percent before regular trading. However, the boeing aircraft company stock had experienced a significant decline earlier in the year, reflecting investor concerns about boeing distribution aviall the ongoing challenges and uncertainties surrounding the 737 MAX program.

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Calhoun stressed the company’s commitment to transparency, safety, and quality in a letter to employees.“We must continue to respond to this accident with humility and complete transparency. We also must inculcate a total commitment to safety and quality at every level of our company,” he said.

“The eyes of the world are on us, and I know we will come through this moment a better company, building on all the learnings we accumulated as we worked together to rebuild Boeing over the last number of years.”

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