In Bengaluru, the Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu formally launched the DHRUV-NG, a next-generation indigenous civil helicopter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This 5.5-tonne, twin-engine helicopter is engineered to handle diverse Indian terrains and aims to serve both domestic and international civil aviation markets. It features cutting-edge safety and avionics systems, including a civil-certified Glass Cockpit designed for superior situational awareness.
During the event, HAL Chairman & Managing Director Dr DK Sunil highlighted that the DHRUV-NG is a versatile, multi-role helicopter designed to meet demanding operational conditions, with a maximum take-off weight of 5,500 kg and a maximum speed of 285 km/h. It can accommodate up to 14 passengers and is built to be cost-effective, providing a high-performance indigenous alternative to imported helicopters.
Technical Features and Significance
The helicopter is powered by twin Shakti 1H1C engines that offer higher power ratings and facilitate internal maintenance within India. HAL emphasizes that the DHRUV-NG is equipped with modern avionics and additional vibration-control systems, ensuring a smooth ride, particularly suitable for VIP and medical transport. The company also offers comprehensive support services, including manufacturing, maintenance, and upgrades, supported by logistics models like Power-By-Hour and Performance-Based Logistics.
Naidu also officially flagged off the inaugural flight of the helicopter, showcasing HAL’s enhanced indigenous rotary-wing capabilities. The DHRUV-NG's deployment marks a significant milestone in India's effort to bolster its domestic aircraft manufacturing sector and reduce dependency on imported aircraft, while supporting civil aviation growth across challenging terrains.
