The Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), multi-role and multi-mission helicopter is in service with the Indian Army
A HAL official told Flight Global that a western partner could help expedite the design and production process.
"We hope to begin the initial work on the light utility helicopter next year. It would take around five years to completely design and develop a new helicopter, and an experienced Western partner would help in every stage," explained a HAL official.
HAL, which will also maintain the new helicopters, is expected to create a new division to oversee the LUH (light utility helicoper) programme.
The LUH unit would operate independently from the company's existing Dhruv advanced light helicopter and light combat 'copter projects.
Eurocopter recently announced plans to significantly expand its operations in India. According to Ludovic Boistot of Eurocopter, the Indian military market offered "big potential, as the military has undertaken a programme of modernisation and replacing its fleet".
The firm currently counts 480 helicopters on active service in the country."
Rapidly growing economy, increasing reliance on air transport, service to tourist destination and religious places and find of new gas reserves and the demand in other sectors will give big push to helicopter industry in this country," added Boistot.
It should be noted that over 10,000 Eurocopter helicopters are currently in service, with at least 2,800 customers in 140 countries.
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