The Indo–French Shakti turboshaft engine, co-developed by Safran Helicopter Engines and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), powers India's advanced helicopter fleet including the ALH Dhruv, its armed variant Rudra, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).

Currently, the engine comprises over 70% indigenous content, with production concentrated at HAL’s Bangalore facility which manufactures critical components like casings, oil cooling systems, and electrical harnesses.

A pivotal development is underway to raise indigenous production to 100% within the next few years following a comprehensive 100% Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement from Safran for its Ardiden 1H1 engine technology.

This full technology transfer includes proprietary critical components, such as the advanced Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system and turbine modules, previously supplied under license.

To achieve complete domestic manufacturing, HAL is integrating private Indian aerospace firms like Godrej Aerospace and Tata Advanced Systems into the supply chain to create a robust industrial ecosystem by 2027-2028.

With over 500 Shakti engines produced so far and more than 350 operational, this transition will reduce Indian dependence on foreign supply chains for essential engine parts.

Strategically engineered for “hot and high” performance, the Shakti engine enables helicopters to operate effectively at altitudes over 20,000 feet, a critical capability for surveillance and combat missions along India’s mountainous northern borders.

The move to 100% indigenous production aligns with India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, ensuring faster aircraft maintenance, reduced turnaround times, and enhanced operational readiness for the Indian Army and Air Force helicopter fleets.

Economically, complete local production is expected to cut production and maintenance costs by up to 30%, boost the export potential of Indian helicopters like the LCH Prachand, and insulate the supply chain from global disruptions.

The Indo-French partnership reflects long-term collaboration and trust, reinforced by HAL’s progress on indigenous engines like the High Temperature Shaft Engine (HTSE-1200), encouraging Safran to enable full technology transfer while seeking to maintain market presence in India.

Together, these developments mark a significant milestone in India’s aerospace and defence self-reliance efforts, enhancing strategic autonomy and positioning India as a sophisticated helicopter engine manufacturing hub in the coming years.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)