HAL Bags Export Order For Dhruv Helicopter

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a contract with the Government of Mauritius to deliver one Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH Mk III) for the Mauritius Police Force. The ALH is better known by its moniker, Dhruv. 

Mauritius currently operates two HAL-built aircraft: A Dornier-228 maritime surveillance aircraft and an ALH. HAL has been providing and maintaining aircraft for the Indian Ocean island nation for the last three decades. 

The repeat order is being seen as a validation of the home-grown helicopter’s performance and capability, and its acceptability in the international market.

The contract for the second ALH was signed by the Mauritius Secretary of Home Affairs OK Dabidin and HAL’s Helicopter Division General Manager BK Tripathy at Kanpur recently. Under the terms of the contract, the Indian aircraft manufacturer will also provide technical assistance and product support for the entire life of the helicopter.

ALH Mk III is a proven 5.5-ton multi-role, multi-mission helicopter developed and manufactured by HAL. This helicopter is used by all three Defence services and the Indian Coast Guard in a variety of roles, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The 335 ALHs produced so far have logged about 340,000 flying hours. 

Vishal Thapar

BW Reporters Group Editorial Head for BW’s Defence, Security & Police