India eyes IMRH to replace aging Indian military helicopter fleet as Safran Engines and HAL partner

India's state-owned aerospace and defence company, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has embarked on a transformative project known as the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH). This versatile and adaptable helicopter aims to cater to a wide range of roles within the Indian armed forces, bolstering the nation's defence capabilities. Discussions with the Indian Armed Forces on operational requirements for this innovative helicopter continue, emphasizing the importance of incorporating an indigenous engine, furthering India's self-reliance ambitions in the realm of defence technologies.  

The IMRH project is poised to address the Qualitative Requirements of the Indian Defense forces, promising substantial performance improvements over contemporary multi-role medium-lift helicopters. Its design includes many features tailored to thrive in Indian operational conditions. The IMRH airframe comprises three main sections: the front fuselage, centre fuselage, and tail boom, and it is expected to replace the current Mil Mi-17 and Mil Mi-8 helicopters currently in service across the Indian armed forces.  

Crucial discussions on indigenous engine development  

The success of the IMRH project hinges on the development of an indigenous engine, a crucial milestone in achieving self-reliance in defence technology. Discussions are ongoing between HAL, Safran Helicopter Engines, and the Indian Armed Forces on the operational requirements for this new helicopter. The availability of an indigenous engine will significantly enhance the self-reliance of the platform and align with the Indian Government's vision of "Atmanirbhar Bharat," focusing on self-reliance in defence technologies.  

These helicopters are designed to be versatile and adaptable to various missions, such as troop transport, search and rescue, air attack, anti-surface, anti-submarine warfare, electronic warfare, and more, reflecting their multi-role capabilities. The IMRH also marks India's commitment to bolster its indigenous aerospace and defence capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.  

Versatile features and capabilities of the IMRH  

The IMRH helicopter is designed with a strong focus on safety and efficiency. The cockpit accommodates two or three crew members, prioritizing crash protection and providing exceptional all-round visibility. The aircraft features multiple options for emergency entry and exit, with flush sliding doors to minimize aerodynamic resistance. Its center fuselage includes a spacious troop/passenger/cargo compartment, capable of seating up to 36 passengers across three rows and carrying an internal cargo load of 4,000 kg.  

The IMRH is equipped with an external hook for cargo transport and removable floors for accessibility. The design incorporates hard points for critical functions such as jacking, towing, and various armament attachments. The rear section of the fuselage houses a hydraulically operated ramp, the tail boom connection, and equipment bays on the inner sides, allowing efficient cargo loading.  

This ambitious project, marked by the collaboration between HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines, is set to enhance India's defence capabilities by bridging the gap between military and civilian applications. As of the last available update in September 2021, the IMRH's development and production were ongoing, with ongoing technical and operational advancements to further bolster India's self-reliance and defence capabilities.