The technology demonstrator of the folded NUH developed by HAL was shown at Aero India 2019

by Akshara Parakala

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) showcased the technology demonstrator of the Dhruv Mk III Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) with folding tail boom and main rotor blades, designated Naval Utility Helicopter (NUH).

The helicopter, primarily designed to meet the requirements of the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy for enhanced shipborne operations, was shown at the Aero India exhibition on 20 February. The helicopter will perform a range of mainly maritime missions, including search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), anti-piracy and anti-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, surveillance, and targeting.

The helicopter is in the final stages of development and is expected to take flight this year. The overall integration is being carried out in accordance with the Naval Project Office to suit the stowage, take-off, and landing requirements of ship-based operations.