HAL’s Next-Gen Civil Helicopter DHRUV-NG Takes Maiden Flight

The minister also flagged off the inaugural flight of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) DHRUV-NG, a civil variant of the indigenous helicopter showcased by HAL at the 2025 Aero India show.

According to HAL, the DHRUV-NG is a 5.5-tonne light, twin-engine, multi-role helicopter designed to meet the diverse and demanding conditions of Indian terrain. The platform has been upgraded to cater to the stringent requirements of the global civil aviation market.

The helicopter has been engineered with a focus on enhanced safety, performance, and passenger comfort, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous rotary-wing capabilities. It is powered by twin Shakti 1H1C engines that deliver higher power ratings and allow internal maintenance within India.

HAL stated that the DHRUV-NG features a civil-certified glass cockpit compliant with AS4 requirements and a modern avionics suite that provides superior situational awareness. Advanced vibration-control systems ensure a smooth ride, making it suitable for VIP transport and medical evacuation missions.

With a maximum take-off weight of 5,500 kg and a top speed of 285 km/h, the helicopter can carry up to 14 passengers. The Dhruv Civil NG is positioned as a cost-effective, high-performance alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters.

HAL also offers a “One-Stop Solution” covering manufacturing, maintenance, and upgrades. Operational support is provided through integrated logistics models such as Power-By-Hour (PBH) and Performance-Based Logistics (PBL), aimed at ensuring high fleet serviceability.