<p>Somewhere off India's western coast, oil workers ending a long shift on a steel platform will soon see a helicopter built in their own country arriving to take them home. That moment captures what Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will mark on 18 September 2026, when it delivers three home-grown aircraft at its Aircraft Division in Vimanapura, Bengaluru. The ceremony runs from 5 to 6 pm, with entry through Gate 20 of the HAL Airport premises. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu will attend.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That helicopter is the Dhruv NG, the next-generation civilian version of HAL's Advanced Light Helicopter. Mr Naidu flagged off its first flight in Bengaluru on 30 December 2025. Now it moves from display to duty. Pawan Hans has ordered ten for more than ₹1,800 crore. Four arrive now, and the rest follow this financial year. The first is likely to ferry ONGC crews to and from offshore rigs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 5.5-tonne Dhruv NG runs on two Indian-made Shakti engines, so if one fails, the other keeps it flying. Its digital cockpit carries civil approval, its seats absorb the shock of a crash, and its fuel tanks seal small leaks on their own. It cruises at about 285 kmph, covers some 630 km with fuel in reserve, stays aloft for about three hours 40 minutes, and climbs to about 6,000 metres, enough for many Himalayan and plateau routes. The cabin can take four to six VIP seats, up to 14 passengers, or four stretchers with medical crew, which makes it a flying ambulance. Built largely from Indian material, it supports HAL's plan to grow civil work from a small share to nearly a quarter of turnover within ten years.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-summit-2026-was-played-down-dismissed-or-nearly-blacked-out-by-western-media-that-didn-t-work-1789450655670">BRICS Summit 2026 was played down, dismissed or nearly blacked out by Western media. That didn't work</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Leading this shift is Ravi Kota, HAL's 22nd Chairman and Managing Director since 1 May 2026, after D.K. Sunil retired. Defence circles still call him the "LCA man." He is a mechanical engineer from Malnad College of Engineering and an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad and Toulouse. He headed the Tejas division, helped bring the fleet into service, and worked on contracts for 180 Tejas jets and 156 Prachand light combat helicopters. He wants a globally competitive HAL driven by innovation, Artificial Intelligence, operational excellence and its people.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That fighter background shows in the second delivery, the LCA FOC trainer. It is a two-seat Tejas Mk-1 built to Final Operational Clearance, cleared for real combat flying. The trainee sits in front and the instructor behind, under a lengthened canopy, so young pilots practise combat flying in a jet that handles just like the single-seat fighter. These twin-seaters complete the first 40-aircraft Tejas order. They came last because the single-seat fighters were built first. They arrive as the Indian Air Force expands its Tejas family with 83 Mk-1A jets and then 97 more, many of them two-seaters. A third line at Nashik is raising yearly output.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>HAL is also speeding up Tejas output on the factory floor, working with Bengaluru-based ADD Engineering Components on robotic drilling for the fighter's wings. A robot places each of the thousands of fastener holes in a wing the same way every time, cutting rework and freeing skilled technicians for tasks that need human judgement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The third aircraft is where every fighter pilot's journey begins. For years, Indian cadets learned first take-offs, landings, instrument flying and recovery from sudden rolls on the Swiss-built Pilatus PC-7 Mk II. The Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) now takes over. The first three, two from Bengaluru and one from Nashik, belong to a March 2023 order for 70 aircraft worth about ₹6,838 crore.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The HTT-40 seats two, one behind the other, and is fully aerobatic. Its air-conditioned glass cockpit replaces old dials with digital screens, like a modern car dashboard. Its Martin-Baker "zero-zero" ejection seats can save both occupants even when the aircraft is standing still on the ground. A Honeywell TPE331-12B turboprop, a turbine engine that spins a propeller, gives it a top speed near 450 kmph, a range of about 1,000 km and a ceiling of about 6,000 metres.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The road tested everyone's patience. Engine shortages pushed deliveries past the original 2025–26 target until Honeywell supplies began in 2026. HAL's two lines can now build about 20 trainers a year between them. Indian content, close to 56 per cent today, is set to cross 60 per cent. A nation that cannot train its own pilots cannot grow its own air force.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Late engines and long waits are part of this story, but so is persistence. On 18 September, India hands over machines that will train its pilots, guard its skies and carry its people across sea and mountain.</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p>

The 5.5-tonne Dhruv NG runs on two Indian-made Shakti engines, so if one fails, the other keeps it flying. Its digital cockpit carries civil approval, its seats absorb the shock of a crash, and its fuel tanks seal small leaks on their own.

Somewhere off India's western coast, oil workers ending a long shift on a steel platform will soon see a helicopter built in their own country arriving to take them home. That moment captures what Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will mark on 18 September 2026, when it delivers three home-grown aircraft at its Aircraft Division in Vimanapura, Bengaluru. The ceremony runs from 5 to 6 pm, with entry through Gate 20 of the HAL Airport premises. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu will attend. That helicopter is the Dhruv NG, the next-generation civilian version of HAL's Advanced Light Helicopter. Mr Naidu flagged off its first flight in Bengaluru on 30 December 2025. Now it moves from display to duty. Pawan Hans has ordered ten for more than ₹1,800 crore. Four arrive now, and the rest follow this financial year. The first is likely to ferry ONGC crews to and from offshore rigs. The 5.5-tonne Dhruv NG runs on two Indian-made Shakti engines, so if one fails, the other keeps it flying. Its digital cockpit carries civil approval, its seats absorb the shock of a crash, and its fuel tanks seal small leaks on their own. It cruises at about 285 kmph, covers some 630 km with fuel in reserve, stays aloft for about three hours 40 minutes, and climbs to about 6,000 metres, enough for many Himalayan and plateau routes. The cabin can take four to six VIP seats, up to 14 passengers, or four stretchers with medical crew, which makes it a flying ambulance. Built largely from Indian material, it supports HAL's plan to grow civil work from a small share to nearly a quarter of turnover within ten years. ALSO READ: BRICS Summit 2026 was played down, dismissed or nearly blacked out by Western media. That didn't work Leading this shift is Ravi Kota, HAL's 22nd Chairman and Managing Director since 1 May 2026, after D.K. Sunil retired. Defence circles still call him the "LCA man." He is a mechanical engineer from Malnad College of Engineering and an alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad and Toulouse. He headed the Tejas division, helped bring the fleet into service, and worked on contracts for 180 Tejas jets and 156 Prachand light combat helicopters. He wants a globally competitive HAL driven by innovation, Artificial Intelligence, operational excellence and its people. That fighter background shows in the second delivery, the LCA FOC trainer. It is a two-seat Tejas Mk-1 built to Final Operational Clearance, cleared for real combat flying. The trainee sits in front and the instructor behind, under a lengthened canopy, so young pilots practise combat flying in a jet that handles just like the single-seat fighter. These twin-seaters complete the first 40-aircraft Tejas order. They came last because the single-seat fighters were built first. They arrive as the Indian Air Force expands its Tejas family with 83 Mk-1A jets and then 97 more, many of them two-seaters. A third line at Nashik is raising yearly output. HAL is also speeding up Tejas output on the factory floor, working with Bengaluru-based ADD Engineering Components on robotic drilling for the fighter's wings. A robot places each of the thousands of fastener holes in a wing the same way every time, cutting rework and freeing skilled technicians for tasks that need human judgement. The third aircraft is where every fighter pilot's journey begins. For years, Indian cadets learned first take-offs, landings, instrument flying and recovery from sudden rolls on the Swiss-built Pilatus PC-7 Mk II. The Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) now takes over. The first three, two from Bengaluru and one from Nashik, belong to a March 2023 order for 70 aircraft worth about ₹6,838 crore. The HTT-40 seats two, one behind the other, and is fully aerobatic. Its air-conditioned glass cockpit replaces old dials with digital screens, like a modern car dashboard. Its Martin-Baker "zero-zero" ejection seats can save both occupants even when the aircraft is standing still on the ground. A Honeywell TPE331-12B turboprop, a turbine engine that spins a propeller, gives it a top speed near 450 kmph, a range of about 1,000 km and a ceiling of about 6,000 metres. The road tested everyone's patience. Engine shortages pushed deliveries past the original 2025–26 target until Honeywell supplies began in 2026. HAL's two lines can now build about 20 trainers a year between them. Indian content, close to 56 per cent today, is set to cross 60 per cent. A nation that cannot train its own pilots cannot grow its own air force. Late engines and long waits are part of this story, but so is persistence. On 18 September, India hands over machines that will train its pilots, guard its skies and carry its people across sea and mountain.

<p>The 5.5-tonne Dhruv NG runs on two Indian-made Shakti engines, so if one fails, the other keeps it flying. Its digital cockpit carries civil approval, its seats absorb the shock of a crash, and its fuel tanks seal small leaks on their own.</p>

Salt air to sound waves: HAL’s homegrown trio takes wing

This shift has strengthened operational readiness across the Indian Air Force, Army and Navy, while advancing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

<p>This shift has strengthened operational readiness across the Indian Air Force, Army and Navy, while advancing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.</p>

From Dhruv to Prachand: India’s 4 most important indigenous helicopters built by HAL

The ALH Dhruv is an indigenously designed and developed twin-engine helicopter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). 

What is India's 'Dhruv' helicopter? Know strength, capabilities, power and more

<p>Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recently faced sharp criticism in Parliament and beyond, over the delays in Tejas fighter production, the grounding of Dhruv helicopters, and perceived inefficiencies under scrutiny. Yet, this isn&rsquo;t a tale of defeat&mdash;it&rsquo;s a saga of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless drive to secure India&rsquo;s skies. HAL isn&rsquo;t faltering; it&rsquo;s rising through adversity, proving its mettle with every challenge overcome.</p>
<p>Globally, building a fighter aircraft and bringing it to market is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the Lockheed Martin F-16: conceptualised in the early 1970s, its first flight came in 1974, and it entered service in 1978&mdash;about seven years from idea to operational reality. The Dassault Rafale, France&rsquo;s pride, began development in 1978, flew in 1986, and joined service in 2001&mdash;a 23-year journey. Even the cutting-edge F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, launched in 1995, didn&rsquo;t become operational until 2015, taking 20 years despite the U.S.&rsquo;s vast resources. These timelines reflect the complexity of modern fighters&mdash;integrating avionics, engines, and weapons systems demands time, precision, and resilience.</p>
<p>The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key. Unlike its global peers, Tejas faced unique turmoil&mdash;U.S. sanctions in 1998 over India&rsquo;s nuclear tests disrupted access to critical technology, notably stalling the indigenous Kaveri engine. HAL pivoted, integrating the GE F404 engine, a move that kept the programme alive. This wasn&rsquo;t a setback; it was a masterstroke of adaptability, adding credibility to Tejas as a fighter born of necessity and ingenuity. Every extra year spent refining it&mdash;amid funding gaps and shifting IAF requirements&mdash;ensured a jet that&rsquo;s not just functional but exceptional.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/indias-secret-weapon-sfdr-missile-test-stokes-fears-in-pakistan-and-china-784002" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"><span>&nbsp;</span>India's secret weapon? SFDR missile test stokes fears in Pakistan and China</a></p>
<p>Recent flak over Tejas Mk1A delays misses the bigger picture. The contract revision from Rs 5,989.39 crore to Rs 6,542.20 crore, signed this week, reflects HAL&rsquo;s flexibility to meet evolving IAF needs. The first GE F404-IN20 engine&rsquo;s arrival marks a turning point&mdash;production is set to ramp up to 28 jets annually soon. This isn&rsquo;t tardiness; it&rsquo;s HAL aligning for a sprint after a gruelling marathon. The grounding of over 330 Dhruv helicopters since a January 5 crash isn&rsquo;t failure either&mdash;it&rsquo;s HAL prioritising safety, a hallmark of a mature aerospace player. Each check strengthens trust, ensuring Dhruvs return to the skies more reliable than ever.</p>
<p>Parliament&rsquo;s critique of prolonged timelines and cost overruns overlooks HAL&rsquo;s ambition. Tejas isn&rsquo;t a quick fix; it&rsquo;s a legacy&mdash;50% indigenous, aiming for 60%. Costs are investments in self-reliance, not waste. Strategic opportunities? HAL&rsquo;s seizing them, from AESA radar integration to export talks with Guyana. This is a company building a future, not missing chances. The IAF chief&rsquo;s &ldquo;not confident&rdquo; remark stings, but HAL&rsquo;s answering with action&mdash;Tejas Mk1A&rsquo;s advanced features like BVR missiles and EW suites are proof of capability. Confidence isn&rsquo;t lost; it&rsquo;s being forged, jet by jet.</p>
<p>The IAF needs 40 fighters yearly; HAL&rsquo;s closing in, with a Rs 2.5 lakh crore order book signaling faith in its trajectory. The call for proactive R&amp;D? HAL&rsquo;s already there&mdash;Tejas Mk1A&rsquo;s tech is cutting-edge, born from its labs. Procurement delays and cost overruns, flagged by the 2023 CAG report, are lessons, not failures. HAL&rsquo;s refining its game, outsourcing to private firms, and tightening finances. This is evolution, not stagnation&mdash;a company learning to soar.</p>
<p><strong>Also read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/encounter-jammu-and-kashmir-3-cops-injured-in-encounter-in-kathua-2-terrorists-shot-dead-8898118" target="_blank" rel="noopener">India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&amp;K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead</a></strong></p>
<p>Critics demand rigorous planning and stakeholder ties. HAL&rsquo;s delivering&mdash;streamlining processes, deepening IAF collaboration, and integrating F404 engines with precision. Market research? Tejas exports are in play. Certifications? Engine delivery proves it&rsquo;s on track. HAL&rsquo;s not just aiming for leadership&mdash;it&rsquo;s earning it. India&rsquo;s defence modernisation rests on innovation and management, and HAL excels at both. Tejas and Dhruv are ingenuity incarnate; production bottlenecks are easing, accountability rising. Vision? HAL&rsquo;s eyes are on a modern IAF and a self-reliant India.</p>
<p>HAL&rsquo;s credibility shines brighter because of its trials. Sanctions forced ingenuity; delays honed precision. Every jet strengthens security; every fix solidifies its role as India&rsquo;s aerospace backbone. Tejas Mk1A isn&rsquo;t just a fighter&mdash;it&rsquo;s a symbol of HAL&rsquo;s defiance and promise. Globally, fighters take decades&mdash;Tejas, born amid turmoil, stands tall. Challenges are temporary; HAL&rsquo;s spirit is unbreakable.</p>
<p>As HAL weathers this storm, it&rsquo;s thriving. The IAF&rsquo;s fleet will grow, Dhruvs will fly again, and Tejas will dominate&mdash;not because of pressure, but because HAL&rsquo;s built for it. This isn&rsquo;t a company under fire; it&rsquo;s a force taking flight, securing India&rsquo;s future and etching its name globally. The best is yet to come, and HAL&rsquo;s crafting it, one wing at a time.</p>
<p><em>(The author, Girish Linganna, of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace &amp; Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)</em></p>
<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</em></strong></p>

India News: The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recently faced sharp criticism in Parliament and beyond, over the delays in Tejas fighter production, the grounding of Dhruv helicopters, and perceived inefficiencies under scrutiny. Yet, this isn’t a tale of defeat—it’s a saga of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless drive to secure India’s skies. HAL isn’t faltering; it’s rising through adversity, proving its mettle with every challenge overcome. Globally, building a fighter aircraft and bringing it to market is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the Lockheed Martin F-16: conceptualised in the early 1970s, its first flight came in 1974, and it entered service in 1978—about seven years from idea to operational reality. The Dassault Rafale, France’s pride, began development in 1978, flew in 1986, and joined service in 2001—a 23-year journey. Even the cutting-edge F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, launched in 1995, didn’t become operational until 2015, taking 20 years despite the U.S.’s vast resources. These timelines reflect the complexity of modern fighters—integrating avionics, engines, and weapons systems demands time, precision, and resilience. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, sanctioned in 1983, took 33 years to reach initial operational clearance in 2016. Critics highlight this as a delay, but context is key. Unlike its global peers, Tejas faced unique turmoil—U.S. sanctions in 1998 over India’s nuclear tests disrupted access to critical technology, notably stalling the indigenous Kaveri engine. HAL pivoted, integrating the GE F404 engine, a move that kept the programme alive. This wasn’t a setback; it was a masterstroke of adaptability, adding credibility to Tejas as a fighter born of necessity and ingenuity. Every extra year spent refining it—amid funding gaps and shifting IAF requirements—ensured a jet that’s not just functional but exceptional. Also Read: India's secret weapon? SFDR missile test stokes fears in Pakistan and China Recent flak over Tejas Mk1A delays misses the bigger picture. The contract revision from Rs 5,989.39 crore to Rs 6,542.20 crore, signed this week, reflects HAL’s flexibility to meet evolving IAF needs. The first GE F404-IN20 engine’s arrival marks a turning point—production is set to ramp up to 28 jets annually soon. This isn’t tardiness; it’s HAL aligning for a sprint after a gruelling marathon. The grounding of over 330 Dhruv helicopters since a January 5 crash isn’t failure either—it’s HAL prioritising safety, a hallmark of a mature aerospace player. Each check strengthens trust, ensuring Dhruvs return to the skies more reliable than ever. Parliament’s critique of prolonged timelines and cost overruns overlooks HAL’s ambition. Tejas isn’t a quick fix; it’s a legacy—50% indigenous, aiming for 60%. Costs are investments in self-reliance, not waste. Strategic opportunities? HAL’s seizing them, from AESA radar integration to export talks with Guyana. This is a company building a future, not missing chances. The IAF chief’s “not confident” remark stings, but HAL’s answering with action—Tejas Mk1A’s advanced features like BVR missiles and EW suites are proof of capability. Confidence isn’t lost; it’s being forged, jet by jet. The IAF needs 40 fighters yearly; HAL’s closing in, with a Rs 2.5 lakh crore order book signaling faith in its trajectory. The call for proactive R&D? HAL’s already there—Tejas Mk1A’s tech is cutting-edge, born from its labs. Procurement delays and cost overruns, flagged by the 2023 CAG report, are lessons, not failures. HAL’s refining its game, outsourcing to private firms, and tightening finances. This is evolution, not stagnation—a company learning to soar. Also read | India: 3 cops killed in encounter in J&K's Kathua, 2 terrorists shot dead Critics demand rigorous planning and stakeholder ties. HAL’s delivering—streamlining processes, deepening IAF collaboration, and integrating F404 engines with precision. Market research? Tejas exports are in play. Certifications? Engine delivery proves it’s on track. HAL’s not just aiming for leadership—it’s earning it. India’s defence modernisation rests on innovation and management, and HAL excels at both. Tejas and Dhruv are ingenuity incarnate; production bottlenecks are easing, accountability rising. Vision? HAL’s eyes are on a modern IAF and a self-reliant India. HAL’s credibility shines brighter because of its trials. Sanctions forced ingenuity; delays honed precision. Every jet strengthens security; every fix solidifies its role as India’s aerospace backbone. Tejas Mk1A isn’t just a fighter—it’s a symbol of HAL’s defiance and promise. Globally, fighters take decades—Tejas, born amid turmoil, stands tall. Challenges are temporary; HAL’s spirit is unbreakable. As HAL weathers this storm, it’s thriving. The IAF’s fleet will grow, Dhruvs will fly again, and Tejas will dominate—not because of pressure, but because HAL’s built for it. This isn’t a company under fire; it’s a force taking flight, securing India’s future and etching its name globally. The best is yet to come, and HAL’s crafting it, one wing at a time. (The author, Girish Linganna, of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com) (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

HAL and Tejas: Soaring through storms to supremacy

<p>Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time. China’s C919 airliner, a potential rival to Western-made Boeing and Airbus planes, also staged a fly-by at the Singapore Airshow on its first trip outside Chinese territory.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the aviation gathering in Singapore</strong></h2>

<p>The biennial commercial and defence-focussed Singapore Airshow witnessed the participation of company executives and high-ranking government officials of more than 1,000 companies from over 50 countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Army to convert Uttar Bharat (UB) area into full-fledged Operational Corps</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-army-to-convert-uttar-bharat-ub-area-into-full-fledged-operational-corps-692000/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The event was led by Western aviation giants, Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin and Chinese competitors such as state-owned entities Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Countries like Singapore, Australia, India, Indonesia, South Korea and the United States, showcased their military aircraft. The air show also saw the participation of China’s COMAC C919 single-aisle commercial jet and an Airbus A350-1000 powered by 35 per cent aviation fuel.</p>

<h2><strong>HAL’s Dhruv to lead India’s charge in Singapore</strong></h2>

<p>The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)&nbsp;manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv operated by the IAF’s Sarang team was a part of the Singapore Airshow for the first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The display is designed to highlight the ALH Dhruv’s agility and manoeuvrability, as well as the high degree of skills of the IAF pilots flying these machines,” said India’s ministry of defence in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-c919-airliner-makes-historic-international-debut-at-singapore-airshow-691593">China's C919 airliner makes historic international debut at Singapore Airshow</a></strong></p>

<p>The indigenously manufactured ALH and its variants have successfully been inducted and are currently being operated by all the military services of India as a part of the Indian government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat’ initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>China’s first homegrown airliner</strong></h2>

<p>China’s C919 airliner made its international debut, on Sunday (Feb 18) by staging a flyby at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft, manufactured by the state-owned COMAC took to the skies last May and is seen as a prominent symbol of Beijing’s “Made in China” plan aimed at reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers.</p>

<p>COMAC also posted its first aircraft orders, on Tuesday morning, with China’s Tibet Airlines finalising an order for 40 C919 single-aisle planes and 10 ARJ21 regional jets. Additionally, China’s Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group ordered 6 ARJ21s.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia out, Israel in</strong></h2>

<p>Russian companies such as Russian Helicopters and Irkut which had attended past airshows were not participating this year amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-drones-may-deliver-medicines-if-caa-proposal-goes-through-692006">UK: Drones may deliver medicines if CAA proposal goes through</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, Israeli companies Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems which had opted out of the Dubai Airshow in November amid the war between Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, attended the event in Singapore.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Real return to normal’</strong></h2>

<p>“We see 2024 as a real return to normal,” said Steven Townend, the CEO of Singapore-based aircraft lessor BOC Aviation. He added, “The industry is growing, airlines are making money again on a global basis. For 2024, we’re really positive.”</p>

<p>Notably, the airshow was the first one in six years unaffected by COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions as the industry continued to grapple with a rebound in post-pandemic travel demand amid persistent supply chain issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time.

Asia’s biggest aviation gathering kicked off in Singapore, on Tuesday (Feb 20), where the Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv for the first time. China’s C919 airliner, a potential rival to Western-made Boeing and Airbus planes, also staged a fly-by at the Singapore Airshow on its first trip outside Chinese territory. About the aviation gathering in Singapore The biennial commercial and defence-focussed Singapore Airshow witnessed the participation of company executives and high-ranking government officials of more than 1,000 companies from over 50 countries. WATCH | Indian Army to convert Uttar Bharat (UB) area into full-fledged Operational Corps The event was led by Western aviation giants, Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin and Chinese competitors such as state-owned entities Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). Countries like Singapore, Australia, India, Indonesia, South Korea and the United States, showcased their military aircraft. The air show also saw the participation of China’s COMAC C919 single-aisle commercial jet and an Airbus A350-1000 powered by 35 per cent aviation fuel. HAL’s Dhruv to lead India’s charge in Singapore The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv operated by the IAF’s Sarang team was a part of the Singapore Airshow for the first time. “The display is designed to highlight the ALH Dhruv’s agility and manoeuvrability, as well as the high degree of skills of the IAF pilots flying these machines,” said India’s ministry of defence in a statement. Also Read | China's C919 airliner makes historic international debut at Singapore Airshow The indigenously manufactured ALH and its variants have successfully been inducted and are currently being operated by all the military services of India as a part of the Indian government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat’ initiative. China’s first homegrown airliner China’s C919 airliner made its international debut, on Sunday (Feb 18) by staging a flyby at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft, manufactured by the state-owned COMAC took to the skies last May and is seen as a prominent symbol of Beijing’s “Made in China” plan aimed at reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers. COMAC also posted its first aircraft orders, on Tuesday morning, with China’s Tibet Airlines finalising an order for 40 C919 single-aisle planes and 10 ARJ21 regional jets. Additionally, China’s Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group ordered 6 ARJ21s. Russia out, Israel in Russian companies such as Russian Helicopters and Irkut which had attended past airshows were not participating this year amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Also Read | UK: Drones may deliver medicines if CAA proposal goes through On the other hand, Israeli companies Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems which had opted out of the Dubai Airshow in November amid the war between Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, attended the event in Singapore. ‘Real return to normal’ “We see 2024 as a real return to normal,” said Steven Townend, the CEO of Singapore-based aircraft lessor BOC Aviation. He added, “The industry is growing, airlines are making money again on a global basis. For 2024, we’re really positive.” Notably, the airshow was the first one in six years unaffected by COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions as the industry continued to grapple with a rebound in post-pandemic travel demand amid persistent supply chain issues. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore Airshow: India’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv participates in Asia’s biggest aviation event

<p>Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), which faced scrutiny due to a series of accidents earlier this year, has identified and addressed its flaws to prioritise flight safety, senior officials with knowledge of the matter revealed on Wednesday, media reports said.</p>

<p>The indigenously designed and developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-DHRUV) is a twin-engine, multi-role, multi-mission new-generation helicopter in the 5.5-tonne weight class.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports said that the process of fixing the flaws is underway.&nbsp;While investigating recent incidents involving the Indian-made helicopter, certain design and metallurgy issues came to light.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ALH is operated by the Indian army, air force, navy, and coast guard, with over 330 helicopters in service.&nbsp;Following safety concerns and a series of accidents, the helicopter was temporarily grounded and then cleared for flying, only to be grounded again between March and May.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, a state-owned company, is responsible for designing and developing these helicopters. They are now being cleared for urgent missions in batches after comprehensive checks.</p>

<h2><strong>12 accidents in the past five years</strong></h2>

<p>In the past five years, the ALH has been involved in 12 accidents, including a crash-landing in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Kishtwar on 4 May, resulting in the death of a soldier and injuries to two pilots.</p>

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<p>Prior to that, a coast guard ALH made a forced landing in Kochi on 26 March, and a navy ALH performed an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on March 8.</p>

<h2><strong>Government's measures for resumption of flights</strong></h2>

<p>According to a government letter dated May 22, urgent flights were allowed to resume after conducting an independent maintenance flight safety audit and ensuring compliance with safety-related technical instructions and alert notices, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The letter specified that critical items and systems had undergone satisfactory checks.</p>

<h2><strong>Design review of safety-critical system</strong></h2>

<p>Dhruv is certified for military operations by the Centre for Military Airworthiness Certification (CEMILAC) and civil operations by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). CEMILAC, a government regulatory body responsible for certifying the airworthiness of military aircraft, suggested a design review of a safety-critical system on the ALH.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>CEMILAC, a part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ordered the review of booster control rods to enhance the ALH's airworthiness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An expert committee formed after the navy ALH incident on 8 March found that the failure in the assembly of serrated washers in the booster control rods was the most probable cause of the incident. These rods are crucial for controlling the helicopter's motion, and any failure can lead to accidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CEMILAC recommended short-term and long-term measures to improve the ALH's safety.</p>

<h2><strong>Expedited design, development, and qualification</strong></h2>

<p>CEMILAC emphasised the need for expedited design, development, and qualification of steel booster control rods that are tolerant to assembly errors.&nbsp;The new design should aim to be implemented within six months to one year. In a letter dated April 23, CEMILAC instructed HAL, the three services, and the coast guard to focus on these safety measures.</p>

<h2><strong>Prescribed measures for resumption of operations</strong></h2>

<p>CEMILAC provided specific measures for the resumption of operations of the ALH, Rudra (the armed version of ALH), and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).&nbsp;</p>

<p>It mandated inspections before granting clearance for these platforms, with a limit of 100 flight hours each. Further clearance for up to 500 flight hours or one year, whichever is earlier, would be contingent upon the successful completion of two critical tests conducted by HAL.&nbsp;</p>

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Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), which faced scrutiny due to a series of accidents earlier this year, has identified and addressed its flaws to prioritise flight safety, senior officials with knowledge of the matter revealed on Wednesday, media reports said.

Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), which faced scrutiny due to a series of accidents earlier this year, has identified and addressed its flaws to prioritise flight safety, senior officials with knowledge of the matter revealed on Wednesday, media reports said. The indigenously designed and developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-DHRUV) is a twin-engine, multi-role, multi-mission new-generation helicopter in the 5.5-tonne weight class. Reports said that the process of fixing the flaws is underway. While investigating recent incidents involving the Indian-made helicopter, certain design and metallurgy issues came to light. The ALH is operated by the Indian army, air force, navy, and coast guard, with over 330 helicopters in service. Following safety concerns and a series of accidents, the helicopter was temporarily grounded and then cleared for flying, only to be grounded again between March and May. Also Read | Okinawa port awash in blood-red hue after beer factory leak in Japan Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, a state-owned company, is responsible for designing and developing these helicopters. They are now being cleared for urgent missions in batches after comprehensive checks. 12 accidents in the past five years In the past five years, the ALH has been involved in 12 accidents, including a crash-landing in Jammu & Kashmir's Kishtwar on 4 May, resulting in the death of a soldier and injuries to two pilots. Also Read | Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque Prior to that, a coast guard ALH made a forced landing in Kochi on 26 March, and a navy ALH performed an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on March 8. Government's measures for resumption of flights According to a government letter dated May 22, urgent flights were allowed to resume after conducting an independent maintenance flight safety audit and ensuring compliance with safety-related technical instructions and alert notices, as per media reports. The letter specified that critical items and systems had undergone satisfactory checks. Design review of safety-critical system Dhruv is certified for military operations by the Centre for Military Airworthiness Certification (CEMILAC) and civil operations by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). CEMILAC, a government regulatory body responsible for certifying the airworthiness of military aircraft, suggested a design review of a safety-critical system on the ALH. Watch | Concert economics explained: The craze for high-profile concerts × CEMILAC, a part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), ordered the review of booster control rods to enhance the ALH's airworthiness. An expert committee formed after the navy ALH incident on 8 March found that the failure in the assembly of serrated washers in the booster control rods was the most probable cause of the incident. These rods are crucial for controlling the helicopter's motion, and any failure can lead to accidents. CEMILAC recommended short-term and long-term measures to improve the ALH's safety. Expedited design, development, and qualification CEMILAC emphasised the need for expedited design, development, and qualification of steel booster control rods that are tolerant to assembly errors. The new design should aim to be implemented within six months to one year. In a letter dated April 23, CEMILAC instructed HAL, the three services, and the coast guard to focus on these safety measures. Prescribed measures for resumption of operations CEMILAC provided specific measures for the resumption of operations of the ALH, Rudra (the armed version of ALH), and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH). It mandated inspections before granting clearance for these platforms, with a limit of 100 flight hours each. Further clearance for up to 500 flight hours or one year, whichever is earlier, would be contingent upon the successful completion of two critical tests conducted by HAL. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter safety flaws identified, being addressed, says report

<p>The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials on Friday said that four 'Helina' anti-tank missiles were launched from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv helicopter at Pokhran ranges in Rajasthan.</p>

<p>The helicopter launched Nag (Helina) anti-tank guided missile is ready for induction into the armed forces with the infra-red missile striking 100 per cent success at test-firing trials.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Helina Trial Video <a href="https://t.co/06kHn21XNE">pic.twitter.com/06kHn21XNE</a></p>
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India/status/1362682696158306305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>It is a third-generation, lock-on before launch (LOBL) fire and forgets anti-tank guided missile with both TOP attack and Direct attack capability. The missile has a maximum range capability of 7+ km. Eight Helina missiles can be integrated on to ALH-WSI (Rudra), four on either side. A twin-launcher capable of carrying two ‘Helina’ missiles is designed and there are four such launchers in full configuration, two on either side of the helicopter armament boom.</p>

<p>"Joint User Trials for Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version) Missile Systems designed and developed by DRDO were carried out from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) platform in desert ranges," DRDO tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Joint User Trials for Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version) Missile Systems designed and developed by DRDO were carried out from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) platform in desert ranges. <a href="https://t.co/3o8q34Y223">pic.twitter.com/3o8q34Y223</a></p>
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRDO_India/status/1362675400929800193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Army and Air Force for the achievements.</p>

<p>"Five missions were carried out for evaluating the missile capabilities in minimum and maximum range," the ministry of defence said in a release.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials on Friday said that four 'Helina' anti-tank missiles were launched from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv helicopter at Pokhran ranges in Rajasthan.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officials on Friday said that four 'Helina' anti-tank missiles were launched from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv helicopter at Pokhran ranges in Rajasthan. The helicopter launched Nag (Helina) anti-tank guided missile is ready for induction into the armed forces with the infra-red missile striking 100 per cent success at test-firing trials. Helina Trial Video pic.twitter.com/06kHn21XNE — DRDO (@DRDO_India) February 19, 2021 × It is a third-generation, lock-on before launch (LOBL) fire and forgets anti-tank guided missile with both TOP attack and Direct attack capability. The missile has a maximum range capability of 7+ km. Eight Helina missiles can be integrated on to ALH-WSI (Rudra), four on either side. A twin-launcher capable of carrying two ‘Helina’ missiles is designed and there are four such launchers in full configuration, two on either side of the helicopter armament boom. "Joint User Trials for Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version) Missile Systems designed and developed by DRDO were carried out from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) platform in desert ranges," DRDO tweeted. Joint User Trials for Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version) Missile Systems designed and developed by DRDO were carried out from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) platform in desert ranges. pic.twitter.com/3o8q34Y223 — DRDO (@DRDO_India) February 19, 2021 × Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Army and Air Force for the achievements. "Five missions were carried out for evaluating the missile capabilities in minimum and maximum range," the ministry of defence said in a release. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: India's homegrown anti-tank missile Helina launched successfully, ready for induction