From India, via Israel, a star exhibit making its debut in Europe
is the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter),
now known by its newly bestowed name of Dhruv, which translates
as Polaris, the Pole Star. Production deliveries of Dhruvs began
last year, with early helicopters going to the Indian Army, Navy,
Coast Guard and Air Force. The demonstrator at Le Bourget is the
second prototype, which flew in April 1993.
Israel Aircraft Industries is hosting the Dhruv under the terms
of an agreement made late last year that provides for IAI to assist
with development and also with marketing the helicopter outside
India. In addition, HAL is working on a LAH (Light Attack Helicopter)
based on ALH dynamics, but with a slim, but deep, fuselage and
tandem, stepped cockpits. This is also included in the agreement
with IAI, the latter being expected to assist with internal systems
and avionics.
There is a French connection, too, with early Dhruvs being powered
by two of Turbomeca TM 333 turboshafts. In 2006, these will be
replaced by the same company's 1,200 shp Ardiden, built in India
under the local name of Shakti.
