France’s Safran Helicopter Engines and India’s Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-develop new helicopter engines.
As part of the joint venture, both manufacturers will establish an aero-engine company in India and co-develop engines for new helicopters, including the future 13-ton Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMHR).
“We now look forward to utilizing this opportunity to leverage HAL’s experience in manufacturing of more than 15 types of aircraft and helicopter engines to jointly co-develop and manufacture engine with immediate focus on IMRH and its naval variant the Deck Based Multi Role Helicopter (DBMRH),” chief marketing director at HAL, R. Madhavan said.
The 13-ton Indian Multi Role Helicopter is expected to replace the existing Mil Mi-17 helicopters across the Indian armed forces.
Signature with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (@HALHQBLR) of an agreement to create a new JV intended to develop #helicopter engines.
— Safran Helicopter Engines (@SafranHCEngines) July 8, 2022
One of its main objectives: meet the requirements of the future 13-ton #IMRH (Indian Multi Role Helicopter)
https://t.co/3FlbvoE7VU pic.twitter.com/fYNuvU86yJ
This is not the first partnership between the two companies. Safran and HAL have already forged several partnerships, including the development of the Shakti engine, which powers HAL-produced helicopters. More than 500 Shakti engines have already been produced.
“With a fleet of over 1,000 engines, India’s Armed Forces are one of the largest operators of Safran-designed helicopter engines,” CEO at Safran Helicopter Engines, Franck Saudo said.