India flight tests ALH with folding rotor blades
HAL has flown for the first time an ALH with folding rotor blades, which could prove a boon for the Indian Navy. (HAL)
HAL's latest efforts with segmented rotor blades could see the Dhruv helicopter return to favour in the Indian Navy.
A Dhruv helicopter fitted with two-segmented rotor blades, and a main rotor head in pre-cone configuration, has ‘recently’ made its maiden flight, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced on 30 June.
The flight occurred at HAL’s facility in Bengaluru. It followed earlier rotor track and balance runs, a ground resonance test and a clamped power ground run.
The folding rotor blades and pre-cone rotor head are designed to meet Indian Navy (IN) requirements where deck space on ships is at a premium. The system also improves the time between overhauls of the main gearbox.
The IN and Indian Coast Guard have
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![GA-ASI confirms selection to support US Navy’s CCA programme]()
GA-ASI confirms selection to support US Navy’s CCA programme
The company is working on conceptual designs for the US Navy’s CCA programme alongside Anduril, Northrop Grumman and Boeing.
-
![The growing importance of the Blue UAS Cleared List]()
The growing importance of the Blue UAS Cleared List
Inclusion on the Defense Innovation Unit’s Blue UAS Cleared List is set to become ever more crucial for uncrewed aerial vehicle manufacturers due to the access it gives to the US market, which is set to expand significantly over the next 10 years.
-
![Boeing’s T-7A poised to meet UK fast jet trainer requirements]()
Boeing’s T-7A poised to meet UK fast jet trainer requirements
The company is in active discussions with its supply chain to meet any potential near-term UK requirements as it gears up to replace the RAF’s ageing Hawk trainer aircraft.
-
![The potential impact of US tariffs on the F-35A]()
The potential impact of US tariffs on the F-35A
The Trump administration’s proposed tariffs have raised questions on the desirability and feasibility of the F-35A for key US allies including Canada and Switzerland. With combined orders amounting to 126 units, both nations undertook reviews of their ongoing fighter programmes.
