HAL & Safran Sign Contract for Aravalli Engine Development
HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines signed a contract with SAFHAL for the "Aravalli" engine, a new 3,500-4,000 shp engine. It will power HAL's IMRH and DBMRH helicopters. This marks a significant step towards self-reliance in aerospace propulsion.
The development and production of a new high-power helicopter engine for IMRH and DBMRH platforms is a major strategic development for HAL and India's defense capabilities.
The announcement details a significant contract signing for a new engine development, which is a positive step for indigenous capabilities and self-reliance in the aerospace sector.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have entered into a final contract with SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) for the design, development, manufacture, supply, and lifecycle support of a new-generation high-power helicopter engine. This engine, named "Aravalli," will be in the 3,500 to 4,000 shp power class and is slated to power HAL's upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
The contract was signed on August 26, 2026, by Mr. Ajay Kumar Shrivastava, Director, Engineering, Research & Development, HAL, and Mr. Olivier Savin, Director, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Safran Helicopter Engines. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Ravi K, Chairman and Managing Director, HAL, and Mr. Cedric Goubet, Chief Executive Officer, Safran Helicopter Engines.
The Aravalli engine program aims to bolster India's self-reliance in critical aerospace propulsion technologies and enhance indigenous capabilities for future rotorcraft. Mr. Ravi K highlighted that this collaboration lays a strong foundation for powering next-generation Indian helicopter platforms and supports the development of a robust domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem. Mr. Cedric Goubet expressed delight in deepening the partnership with HAL, emphasizing the co-development aspect, which is a first for Safran HE in this engine class. This initiative signifies a new chapter in the strategic relationship between France and India.
SAFHAL, a joint venture between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines SAS, will utilize the combined expertise of its parent companies for advanced design, manufacturing, testing, and product support. The program also holds potential for future civil market applications and is expected to boost indigenous Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India. Safran Group's commitment to India is underscored by sustained investments in manufacturing, engineering, R&D, and MRO, aligning with India's self-reliance objectives.
A plain-language summary of a public exchange filing by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Read the original for the full detail.