HAL's ALH Dhruv–NG Takes Maiden Flight, Revolutionizing India's Civil Rotorcraft.

India's indigenous rotary-wing aviation programme is set to reach a major milestone. The ALH Dhruv–NG inaugural flight is scheduled for tomorrow at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru. This next-generation variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv represents a significant technological leap. It is designed to meet contemporary civil and military operational requirements.

HAL is now strongly positioning the Dhruv–NG for the rapidly expanding Dhruv–NG civil market. The company has historically focused on military variants of the Dhruv platform. This new focus aims to capture demand in air ambulance services, offshore operations, and regional connectivity. The inaugural flight will formally mark the platform's push into the civilian helicopter space.

Advanced Safety and Connectivity

The ALH Dhruv–NG introduces a comprehensive suite of new systems. These upgrades are aimed at enhancing situational awareness and flight safety. The new systems align the platform with modern regulatory standards set by bodies like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Key safety features include the integration of a traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS) and a terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS). These are critical for safe operations in congested airspace and challenging terrain.

• The helicopter features a satellite-based flight following system.
• It also includes automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS-B) capability.
• These features enable real-time tracking and improved coordination with air traffic management infrastructure.

For in-cabin communication, the next-generation Dhruv avionics suite adds a passenger address system and passenger headsets. The platform is also equipped with an advanced area navigation system. The Dhruv–NG is fitted with AS4-compliant systems and received a restricted type certificate from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in June 2023.

Performance and Market Versatility

The Dhruv–NG is a multi-role, multi-mission platform. Its all-up weight is around 5,500 kg. The helicopter offers a maximum cruise speed of approximately 250 kmph.

Its performance envelope supports extended missions across diverse environments. These include coastal, offshore, mountainous, and remote interior regions. The 5500 kg helicopter is powered by two indigenous Shakti engines.

HAL highlights the platform's high versatility for the civil market. Configurations are available for a wide range of roles:

• Heli-tourism: Seating for 9 to 14 passengers.
• VIP Transport and Offshore Operations.
• Medical Services: Including configurations for carrying stretchers.
• Disaster Relief and Search and Rescue missions.

This push into the commercial sector is significant for the India indigenous helicopter program. It offers a cost-effective, reliable, and domestically supported option for civil operators. The platform's modern safety systems are crucial for gaining stakeholder trust and meeting global standards, as covered in various aviation news reports. The growing civil demand is a key opportunity for HAL, especially in segments like offshore transport for companies like Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC). The success of the ALH Dhruv–NG inaugural flight will be closely watched by the industry and regulatory bodies like IATA.

This development marks a crucial step in India's journey toward self-reliance in high-technology commercial aviation.