India’s sophisticated helicopter fleet, which includes the ALH Dhruv, its armed version Rudra, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), is powered by the Indo-French Shakti turboshaft engine, which was co-developed by Safran Helicopter Engines and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
With production centered at HAL’s Bangalore factory, which produces essential parts including casings, oil cooling systems, and electrical harnesses, the engine now has over 70% indigenous content.
After a thorough 100% Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement from Safran for its Ardiden 1H1 engine technology, a significant step is being taken to increase indigenous production to 100% within the next few years.
The sophisticated Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system and turbine modules, which were previously provided under license, are among the exclusive key components included in this complete technology transfer.
By 2027–2028, HAL is building a strong industrial ecosystem by including private Indian aerospace companies like Godrej Aerospace and Tata Advanced Systems into the supply chain in order to achieve full domestic manufacture.
With more than 350 Shakti engines in service and more than 500 already built, this shift will lessen India’s reliance on foreign supply chains for vital engine components.
The Shakti engine, which is strategically designed for “hot and high” performance, allows helicopters to function efficiently at altitudes above 20,000 feet, which is essential for combat and surveillance operations along India’s mountainous northern frontiers.
India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ project is in line with the shift to 100% domestic production, which will provide quicker aircraft maintenance, shorter turnaround times, and improved operational readiness for the Indian Army and Air Force helicopter fleets.
Complete local production is anticipated to increase the export potential of Indian helicopters, such as the LCH Prachand, reduce production and maintenance costs by up to 30%, and protect the supply chain from international disturbances.
Long-term cooperation and trust are shown in the Indo-French alliance, which is strengthened by HAL’s advancements in domestic engines like the High Temperature Shaft Engine (HTSE-1200). This encourages Safran to permit complete knowledge transfer while attempting to keep a foothold in the Indian market.
When taken as a whole, these advancements represent a critical turning point in India’s efforts to become more independent in the aerospace and defense sectors, strengthening strategic autonomy and establishing the country as a hub for the production of advanced helicopter engines in the years to come.
