Overview
Dhruv-NG is an indigenously upgraded civil variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv), developed to meet modern global civil aviation standards of safety, performance, and passenger comfort. Its maiden flight was successfully conducted by (HAL).
Design and Technical Features
- Category: 5.5-tonne class, twin-engine, multi-role civil helicopter
- Engine: Shakti Civil Engine
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 14 passengers
- Service Ceiling: Around 6,000 metres, suitable for high-altitude operations
- Configuration: Optimised for civil use with enhanced comfort and safety systems
Engine and Certification Milestone
- HAL received DGCA certification for indigenous manufacturing of the Shakti Civil Engine
- First DGCA-certified aero-engine in India for indigenous civil production
- Developed in partnership with (France)
- Marks a major step towards self-reliance in civil aero-engine manufacturing
Development and Manufacturing
- Developed by HAL at its Bengaluru facility
- Designed specifically under civil aviation certification norms
- Undergoing rigorous DGCA certification, with around 150 planned test flights
- Differs from military Dhruv variants, which are certified by CEMILAC
Operational Applications
Dhruv-NG is engineered for high-demand civil roles, including:
- Offshore logistics, especially for oil and gas operations
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) and air ambulance roles
- Heli-tourism and pilgrimage routes, including Himalayan and Char Dham circuits
- VIP and state government transport
Indigenisation and Ecosystem
- Current indigenous content: ~65%
- Targeted indigenisation: ~80% in the next decade
- Focus on domestic supply chains and in-country maintenance capability
- Reduces reliance on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers
Significance
- Signals HAL’s entry into the commercial civil helicopter market
- Supports India’s goal of becoming a global hub for civil helicopter manufacturing
- Competitive pricing due to high local content and domestic engine support
- Aligns with regional connectivity and civil aviation expansion initiatives
Dhruv-NG represents a strategic shift in India’s civil aviation sector, combining indigenous engine capability, DGCA-certified manufacturing, and multi-role civil utility, while strengthening self-reliance and expanding HAL’s footprint beyond defence aviation.
