The Indian Express reported that a Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) official projected that India would have a domestic medium-lift helicopter in 8 to 10 years to replace the Russian Mi-17s, which will start to be phased out by 2028.
According to a report in The Indian Express, Abdul Rashid Tajar, Chief Manager (Design) Aerodynamics at HAL, the rough design for the upcoming 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) has already been frozen and the detailed design for the helicopter would be started soon.
The naval version of the made-in-India helicopter will be called the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter.
According to the officials, after obtaining funding and security clearance, they will be ready to launch the first prototype within four years. In the upcoming four years, the testing certification should be ready.
If the approvals are granted, it will fit right into the plan because the Mi-17s will start to be phased out after eight years.
About 250 Mi-17 helicopters
The IAF now has around 250 Mi-17 helicopters, each of which can carry up to 30 soldiers and various types of cargo.
The IMRH will also be able to support air assault, air transport, combat logistics, combat search and rescue, and casualty evacuation missions.
It will be able to carry a weight of up to 4,500 kg.
Along with HAL, France Safran Helicopter Engines will build the helicopter’s engine. During the Aero India, all sides agreed to a work-sharing agreement for the establishment of a joint venture for the design, development, production, and lifetime support of helicopter engines.
HAL is considering putting a minimum order of more than 500 helicopters because each one will likely cost more than Rs 300 crore. HAL will also look into potential export markets.
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