Overview of Helicopter Manufacturing in India
HAL began aircraft manufacturing in 1942 and currently has 11 dedicated research and development centres. Light Utility Helicopter is in limited series production. Indian Multi-role Helicopter is under development.
Prominent Helicopter Manufacturers in India
One of the prominent helicopter manufacturers in India is government-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Private companies like Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) also contribute to helicopter production in India through collaborations with international suppliers.
HAL Helicopter Production and Plans
- Initially, HAL’s new helicopter manufacturing facility in Tumakuru will produce 30 Light Utility Helicopters (LUHs) per year.
- HAL plans to produce over 1,000 helicopters at Tumakuru facility over the next 20 years with a total business of over Rs 4 lakh crore.
- The facility will also be used for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of various helicopter models.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Indian Helicopter Market
The expanding Indian civil aviation market offers potential for growth of commercial helicopter services. However, lack of infrastructure and regulatory measures are challenges.
HAL Light Combat Helicopter
The HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) is an Indian multi-role attack helicopter with the highest flight ceiling among all attack helicopters. It has been ordered by the Indian Air Force and Army.