HAL’s second LUH prototype takes off
The second prototype (PT-2) of Hindustan Aeronautics’ (HAL) Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) has successfully completed its first flight at the company’s facility in Bengaluru, HAL announced on 23 May.
The test flight lasted 22 minutes and the aircraft is reported by the company to have operated as planned.
The LUH PT-2 has a customised tail boom and integrates improvements based on feedback from testing of LUH PT-1. The first flight of LUH PT-1 was carried out in September 2016.
The LUH is a three-tonne class utility helicopter being developed for military and civil operators. With glass cockpit, the helicopter is designed for reconnaissance and surveillance roles and as a light transport helicopter.
The helicopter will be capable of flying at 220kmph with a range of 350km and 400kg payload capacity. The LUH is powered by TM/HAL Ardiden 1U/Shakti 1U single turbo shaft engine.
HAL will continue flight testing on PT-1 and PT-2 to confirm the helicopter's configuration by the end of 2017.
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