HAL to Develop Attack Helicopters in 10-12 Ton Category by 2027

This decision comes as a boost to the Make in India model

Indian Aerospace Major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has started ground work to produce a 10-12 tonne attack helicopter by 2027, according to the Chairman and Managing Director, HAL, R Madhavan.

He added that the aim of the mega project is to stop import of more than Rs 4 lakh crore worth of military helicopters for the three services in the coming years.

As per PTI, in an interview, the chairman had said that they had completed the preliminary design of the helicopter and that initial plan is to produce at least 500 units with the first prototype set to be ready by 2023 if the government gives a nod to the project.




It will cost Rs. 9,600 crore for the design and creation of a prototype.

“One major project we are focusing on is to produce a helicopter in 10 to 12 tonnes category to replace the Mi-17 fleet. It will be an indigenous platform with the potential to manufacture around 500 helicopters. It will stop import of more than Rs 4 lakh crore worth of platforms from foreign countries,” he said.

The helicopter will be powered by twin engines and will feature blade folding option for ship deck operations. They will also support air assault, air transport, combat logistics and combat search and rescue. It will also have a superior weapons package.