India's Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) has joined hands with Safran Helicopter Engines - a subsidiary of France's Safran Group - to design, develop, manufacture and supply a new-generation helicopter engine 'Aravalli'. 

The new engine, to be developed in the 3,500 to 4,000 shp power class, would power HAL’s upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
   
Named after one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, the Aravalli engine "symbolizes India's aspirations towards achieving greater self-reliance in critical aerospace propulsion technologies and strengthening indigenous capabilities for future-generation rotorcraft programmes," HAL said in an official release following the signing of the contract between HAL, Safran Helicopter Engines and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. 

SAFHAL, a joint venture between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines SAS, "will leverage the complementary expertise and strengths of its parent companies to develop cutting-edge propulsion technologies that deliver superior performance, reliability, maintainability, and operational effectiveness. 

The collaboration will encompass advanced design methodologies, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, comprehensive testing, and robust product support, in line with the highest international aerospace standards, HAL said in the official media release.

“The signing of this contract marks a significant step forward in India's pursuit of self-reliance in aero-engine technologies. Through this collaborative programme with SAFHAL and Safran Helicopter Engines, we are creating a strong foundation for powering next-generation Indian helicopter platforms," Ravi K, Chairman and Managing Director, HAL, said.

"The Aravalli engine programme will not only support the operational requirements of the IMRH and DBMRH but will also contribute meaningfully to the development of a robust domestic aerospace industrial ecosystem," he added.

Beyond military applications, the engine programme also offers significant potential for future civil market opportunities, including offshore transportation, utility missions, and VVIP transport. The programme is also expected to further catalyse the development of indigenous Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities in India, HAL said.

Safran Helicopter Engines has been a trusted partner of HAL, beginning with the Artouste engines powering the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters, followed by the Shakti engine family, which powers the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH). 

The 'Aravalli' engine programme further elevates this enduring partnership through the joint design and development of a state-of-the-art turboshaft engine tailored to meet the evolving requirements of medium-lift rotorcraft platforms for India and global markets, HAL added.