Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a 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 named “Aravalli”. The engine will be in the 3,500 to 4,000 shp power class.
HAL Signs Landmark Engine Contract
HAL announced on August 26, 2026, that it has entered into the contract with SAFHAL for the development of the Aravalli engine. The programme is aimed at creating a high-power helicopter propulsion system for India’s next-generation rotary-wing platforms.
The engine is intended to power HAL’s upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
Aravalli Engine for Future Helicopters
The Aravalli programme marks an important step towards strengthening indigenous capabilities in critical aerospace propulsion technologies. The engine is expected to provide the propulsion capability required for future Indian helicopter platforms while supporting the country’s broader efforts towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The contract covers the complete lifecycle of the engine, including its design, development, manufacture, supply and support.
Strengthening HAL-Safran Collaboration
The contract was signed by Ajay Kumar Shrivastava, Director of Engineering, Research & Development at HAL, and Olivier Savin, Director of SAFHAL Helicopter Engines and Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Safran Helicopter Engines.
The signing ceremony was attended by Ravi K, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, and Cédric Goubet, Chief Executive Officer of Safran Helicopter Engines.
The partnership is expected to strengthen cooperation between HAL and Safran in developing advanced propulsion technologies for future Indian helicopter platforms.
Boost to Indigenous Aerospace Capability
Ravi K said the contract represents a significant step towards greater self-reliance in aero-engine technologies. The Aravalli programme is expected to support the operational requirements of the IMRH and DBMRH while contributing to the development of a stronger domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem.
Cédric Goubet welcomed the deepening of the partnership with HAL, highlighting the shared focus on innovation and industrial excellence.
Beyond military applications, the Aravalli engine programme could also create opportunities in future civil helicopter markets and support the development of indigenous Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India.
