HAL and Safran to develop Aravalli engine, India's first high-power design

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and France’s Safran Helicopter Engines have signed an agreement to design and manufacture the Aravalli engine. The partnership operates through their 50:50 joint venture, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd. This project marks the first time a high-power helicopter engine will be designed and developed in India.

The Aravalli engine will deliver between 3,500 and 4,000 shaft horsepower. It is designed to power India’s future 13-tonne Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant. This collaboration provides HAL with access to critical engine technologies and intellectual property. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s defense self-reliance and expand the domestic aerospace ecosystem.