Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) emerged as a show-stopper during the inaugural day of the 11th edition of Aero India inaugurated by the Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in Yelahanka, India, on Feb. 14, 2017.
Parrikar unveiled the full-scale mock-up of the Indian multirole helicopter (IMRH) in the presence of Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Paresekar, T. Suvarna Raju, CMD, HAL, and other key officials at a function held at HAL Pavilion.
HAL aims to indigenously develop 12-ton class IMRH with service ceiling of around 20,000 feet, 3,500 kilograms payload and a seating capacity of 24. The major roles to be performed are tactical troop transport, casualty evacuation, under slung load, combat search-and-rescue, anti-surface operations, offshore operations, VIP/VVIP transport and air ambulance.
The Army/IAF version will have a significant hovering and payload capability especially at high altitude.
The proposed IMRH will be powered by twin engines (to be identified), equipped with an automatic flight control system, state-of-the-art mission systems, advanced cockpit display and avionics systems, etc., to meet the utility and armed roles of Indian Armed Forces.
A dedicated naval variant is also planned.
Besides the domestic defence orders, HAL will target export orders, aiming to replace the ageing fleet of similar class of helicopters that are operational in more than 40 Air Forces around the world.
The Defence Minister also visited HAL stall and witnessed the products and technologies on display.
Earlier in the day, HAL put up a display of its indigenous products. The light utility helicopter made its first appearance at the Aero Show and enthralled the large gathering. The helicopter was flown by ED chief test pilot. The LUH is powered by two Shakthi engines and inherits many technical features of the advanced light helicopter.
