HAL to let pvt sector produce Dhruv copters

Bengalure: In a big shot in the arm for the government’s “Make-in-India” programme, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has taken a major decision to let Indian private companies build the civilian version of the indigenous advanced light helicopter-Dhruv through transfer of technology.

HAL has now invited expression of interest (EOI) for identification of the Indian partner.  “Considering the increasing need of helicopters in civil operations of the country, this will be a mega deal from HAL which is the OEM and Licensor”, said T. Suvarna Raju, CMD, HAL.

The Indian partner will have to have five years of experience in engineering and aerospace industry, including manufacturing and assembly, having a net worth of Rs 2,000 crore and a minimum turnover of Rs 2,500 crore, besides possessing skilled and qualified manpower. The company will also have to be registered in India or having majority holding by Indian stakeholders and willing to enter strategic collaboration with HAL.

The partner will service the potential demand to different customers in the civil sector in a time bound manner besides also providing support to the customers throughout the life of the product (20 years) thereby ensuring long-term business relationship.

HAL, which is the design authority and original equipment manufacturer of ALH-Dhruv, will provide transfer of technology through license and transfer of know-how, technical assistance and license rights for production of the civilian ALH-Dhruv for the selected business partner.

Used as a multi role military aircraft, ALH Dhruv has adequate flexibility of configuration for undertaking different roles.