In a significant milestone for India’s aerospace sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Tuesday successfully conducted the maiden flight of its next-generation multi-role civil helicopter, Dhruv NG, in Bengaluru. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu flagged off the flight and described the aircraft as a symbol of India’s growing technological capability and self-reliance.

Designed and manufactured indigenously, the Dhruv NG is a 5.5-tonne light twin-engine helicopter developed to meet the diverse and demanding conditions of Indian terrain while also catering to the global civil aviation market. Officials said the helicopter features a modern civil-certified glass cockpit, advanced avionics, and enhanced safety systems, offering superior ride quality and situational awareness.

Addressing the gathering, the minister termed the maiden flight a “very important milestone in Indian aviation history” and congratulated HAL’s engineers, designers, and technicians. He noted that HAL is evolving from being defence-focused to a balanced organisation with strong capabilities in both defence and civil aviation, reflecting India’s expanding aerospace ambitions.

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The Dhruv NG is powered by twin indigenous Shakti 1H1C engines, certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which the minister called a defining moment for the civil aviation sector. The helicopter incorporates advanced safety features such as crashworthy seats, self-sealing fuel tanks, and a high-redundancy twin-engine configuration for improved reliability.

With a maximum take-off weight of 5,500 kg, a top speed of about 285 km/h, and a range of nearly 630 km, the helicopter is designed for versatility. Its configurable cabin can support VIP transport, air ambulance services, offshore operations, law enforcement, and disaster relief missions, accommodating up to 14 passengers depending on configuration.

Highlighting India’s rapid aviation growth, the minister said the country is expected to add over 1,000 helicopters in the next 10 to 15 years under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme. HAL officials stated that the Dhruv NG is positioned as a cost-effective, high-performance alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters, reinforcing India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and global competitiveness.

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