Deck Based Multi Role Helicopter
| Deck Based Multi Role Helicopter | |
|---|---|
| General information | |
| Type | Naval multi-role helicopter |
| National origin | India |
| Manufacturer | Hindustan Aeronautics Limited |
| Designer | Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre |
| Status | Under development |
| Primary user | Indian Navy |
| History | |
| Developed from | Indian Multi Role Helicopter |
The Deck Based Multi Role Helicopter (DBMRH) is a 12.5-tonne class, twin-engine naval multi-role helicopter under development by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Navy. Designed by HAL's Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre (RWRDC), the DBMRH is the specialized maritime variant of the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH).[1][2][3]
Development
[edit source]Origins
[edit source]The DBMRH program was conceptualized alongside the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH) initiative to replace older medium-lift rotorcraft across the Indian Armed Forces, including aging Westland Sea King helicopters in service with the Indian Navy.[2]
While the land-based IMRH variant for the Indian Air Force and Indian Army is designed as a 13-tonne class transport and assault rotorcraft, configuration studies for the naval DBMRH established a 12.5-tonne MTOW specification tailored for shipboard storage and deck operations.[2]
Propulsion development
[edit source]In August 2024, HAL signed an airframer contract with SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd., a joint venture between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines to co-develop a new high-power turboshaft engine named "Aravalli".[4][5] The engine, based on Safran's Aneto architecture, is planned to deliver output between 2,200 kW and 3,000 kW (3,000–4,000 shp) to power both the land-based IMRH and the naval DBMRH.[5]
Design
[edit source]The DBMRH features structural and system adaptations required for maritime operations and integration with aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates.[2]
See also
[edit source]References
[edit source]- ↑ "HAL Progressing IMRH Design Steadily, Eyes CCS Nod by March 2026 for Timely Induction". Defence News India. 2025-11-11. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- 1 2 3 4 "The Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH)". AlphaDefense.in. 2025-11-23. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- ↑ Wilson, Gwen (2024-08-30). "HAL selects SAFHAL Helicopter Engines to develop and produce Aravalli engines". HeliHub.com. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- ↑ Tamm, Heike (2024-09-02). "HAL and SAFHAL cooperate to develop Aravalli engines". AviTrader Aviation News. Retrieved 2026-08-05.
- 1 2 "HAL, SAFHAL sign contract to develop engine for heavy lift helicopter". Janes. 2024-08-30. Retrieved 2026-08-05.