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'<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines. --> {|{{Infobox aircraft begin |name= Dhruv |image= File:indian air force dhruv helicopter j4042 arp.jpg |caption= Dhruv helicopter of the [[Indian Air Force]] [[Sarang (military)|Sarang]] Helicopter Display Team arriving at [[RIAT]] 2008, [[England]]. }}{{Infobox aircraft type |type= [[Multirole helicopter]] |national origin= [[India]] |manufacturer= [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] |designer= <!--Only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders--> |first flight= 20 August 1992<ref name= "Important Milestones"/> |introduced= 2002<ref name= "Important Milestones"/> |retired= |status= Active |primary user= [[Indian Army]] |more users= [[Indian Air Force]] <br />[[Indian Navy]] <br />[[Ecuadorian Air Force]]<!-- more users limited to only three please, normally by size of fleet --> |produced= |number built= 105<ref>[http://cag.gov.in/html/reports/commercial/2010-11_10PA/chap3.pdf "Production and supply of Advanced Light Helicopter".] [[Comptroller and Auditor General]] of India, November 2010.</ref> |unit cost= {{INRConvert|400|m}}<ref name= "Huma"/> |developed from= |variants with their own articles= |developed into= [[HAL Light Combat Helicopter]] }} |} The '''HAL Dhruv''' ([[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]: ध्रुव, ''"[[Polaris]]"'') is a [[utility helicopter]] developed and manufactured by [[India]]'s [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] (HAL). Dhruv was first announced in November 1984. The ALH was designed with assistance from [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm|MBB]] in Germany. The Dhruv first flew in 1992; but, due to the changing demands of the [[Indian Army]] and shortage of allocated budget, the program was delayed. This was followed by the [[Pokhran-II|Indian nuclear test]] in 1998 which led to US sanctions on India, even further delaying the program. The Dhruv finally did enter service in 2002. Dhruv is designed to meet the requirement of both military and civil operators. It is being supplied to the [[Indian Armed Forces]] along with a variant for civilian/commercial use. The helicopter was first exported to [[Nepal]] and [[Israel]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-to-hand-over-first-export-dhruvs/348441/ | title=HAL to hand over first export Dhruvs|first=Ajai|last=Shukla | work=Business Standard |date=9 February 2009 |accessdate=13 August 2011}}</ref> It is on order by several other countries for both military and commercial uses. Military versions in production are for transport, utility, reconnaissance and MedEvac roles. Based on the Dhruv platform, the [[HAL Light Combat Helicopter]] (LCH) a [[helicopter gunship]] and [[HAL Light Observation Helicopter]] (LOH) a utility and observation helicopter were developed. == Development == ===Origins=== [[File:HAL Dhruv production line.JPG|thumb|Dhruv production line at [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited|HAL]], [[Bangalore]] ]] The ''Advanced Light Helicopter'' (ALH) for an indigenous 5-ton multirole helicopter was initiated in May 1979 by the Indian Air Force and Navy.<ref name ='hirsch 49'/> HAL were given a contract by the Indian government in 1984 to develop the helicopter;<ref name ='hirsch 49'/><ref>Datta 2008, p. 12.</ref> Germany's [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm]] (MBB) were contracted in July 1984 to act as a design consultant and collaborative partner for the programme.<ref name= "JAWA03 p185"/><ref name= 'khan 248'>Khan 2004, p. 248.</ref> Although originally scheduled to fly in 1989, the first prototype ALH (Z-3182) made its maiden flight on 20 August 1992 at [[Bangalore]] with then-Indian Vice President [[K. R. Narayanan]] in attendance.<ref>Kahn 2004, pp. 248-249.</ref> This was followed by a second prototype (Z-3183) on 18 April 1993, an Army/Air Force version (Z-3268) and a navalised prototype (IN.901) with Allied Signal CTS800 engines and a retractable tricycle undercarriage.<ref name= "JAWA03 p184">Jackson 2003, p. 184.</ref> Although the first prototype flew in August 1992, problems arose due to changing demands from the military and a significant funding shortfall in the wake of the [[1991 India economic crisis]].<ref name ='hirsch 49'>Hirschberg 2011, p. 49.</ref> Naval testing on board the [[INS Viraat]] and other ships started in March 1998, and around the same time a weight-reduction programme was initiated.<ref name= 'dhruv janes'>{{cite web |url= http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/HAL-Dhruv-India.html |title= HAL Dhruv (India), Aircraft - Rotary-wing - Civil/military |publisher= Jane's |date= 13 July 2011}}</ref> However, further delays in development were caused when sanctions upon India were implemented following several [[Pokhran-II|Indian nuclear tests in 1998]] and the continued refusal to sign the [[Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty]], the intended engine for the helicopter, the [[LHTEC T800]], was [[embargo]]ed.<ref name= 'dhruv janes'/><ref name ="dhurv paris buslin">{{cite web |url= http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2005/07/05/stories/2005070500361800.htm |title= Dhruv on wings at Paris |publisher= The Hindu Business Line |date= 5 July 2005}}</ref> The [[Turbomeca]] TM 333-2B2 [[turboshaft]] engine was selected as a replacement; in addition Turbomeca agreed to develop a more powerful engine with HAL, originally known as the ''Ardiden''.<ref name= 'flight152005'>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2005/02/15/193906/aero-india-hal-to-target-maritime-contract.html |title= Aero India - HAL to target maritime contract |publisher= Flight International |date= 15 February 2005}}</ref> Turbomeca also assisted in the development of the helicopter, stress analysis and studies of rotor dynamics were conducted in France.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 24.</ref> The first flight of a Dhruv with the new engine, renamed the [[HAL/Turbomeca Shakti|''Shakti'']], took place on 16 August 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hal-india.com/dhruv-shakti.asp |title=Dhruvs with Shakti engine and weapons make maiden flight |publisher=HAL |date= |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/07/19/stories/2007071950150900.htm |title=Shakti-powered ALH to fly on August 1 |work=[[The Hindu]]|first=Ravi|last=Sharma|date=19 July 2007 |accessdate=31 August 2010 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> ===Further development=== [[File:Dhruv civilian version.jpg|thumb|Dhruv civil variant]] The HAL Rudra, earlier known as Dhruv-WSI (''Weapons Systems Integrated''), is an attack variant for the Indian Army.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/army-to-soon-get-indigenous-weaponised-chopper-advanced-light-helicopter-rudra/articleshow/9857201.cms |title = Army to soon get indigenous weaponised chopper Advanced Light Helicopter 'Rudra' |publisher = The Times of India |date = 5 September 2011}}</ref> Development was sanctioned in December 1998,<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 45.</ref> the prototype first flew on 16 August 2007; it is to be armed with both anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, and a 20-mm turret-mounted cannon.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/17/stories/2007081762311700.htm |title= Weaponised version of Dhruv makes maiden flight |publisher= The Hindu |date= 17 August 2007 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> The Dhruv-WSI is to be capable of conducting [[Close air support|combat air support]] (CAS) and [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) roles as well.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, pp. 24-25.</ref> In addition to the Dhruv-WSI, HAL is also developing the [[HAL Light Combat Helicopter|Light Combat Helicopter]] (LCH) based on the Dhruv for the Indian Armed Forces. It is fitted with stub wings for carrying up to eight anti-armour missiles, four air-to-air missiles, or four pods loaded with either 70mm or 68mm rockets. The LCH will also have FLIR ([[Forward Looking Infrared]]), a CCD ([[Charge Coupled Device]]) camera, and a target acquisition system with laser rangefinder and thermal vision.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-05-24/bangalore/28317274_1_lch-light-combat-helicopter-pilot |title= Indigenous combat copter takes to skies |publisher= The Times of India |date= 24 May 2010}}</ref> [[File:Dhruv-indianarmy-IA-1136.jpg|thumb|left|Indian Army Dhruv on display at Farnborough Airshow 2008]] In 2005, following a crash landing of a Dhruv, the entire fleet was grounded when it was discovered to have been caused by excessive vibration in the area of the tail rotor. Following a redesign of the tail rotor, which incorporated new materials in addition to changes in design methodology, the Dhruv undertook recertification and returned to service shortly after March 2006.<ref name= "deccanchronicle.com"/><ref name= "outlookmar10"/> In April 2007, a report published by the Indian Committee of Defence noted the Dhruv as one of four "focus areas" identified as having high export potential.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 71.</ref> In January 2011, HAL and partner [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] (IAI) announced that they were jointly developing the Dhruv to operate as an unmanned maritime helicopter, stating customer interest in such a feature.<ref name= 'flight201101'>{{cite web |first= Arie |last= Egozi |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/01/06/351501/iai-to-help-india-develop-unmanned-dhruv.html |title= IAI to help India develop unmanned Dhruv |publisher= Flight International |date= 6 January 2011}}</ref> The first five production Dhruv Mk III, powered by the more powerful Shakti engine, were delivered to the [[Leh]]-based 205 Aviation Squadron on 7 February 2011 during a ceremony at HAL's Helicopter Division.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|title=In Siachen, Dhruv proves a world-beater|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/|work=Business Standard|accessdate=21 August 2011|date=7 March 2011}}</ref> In July 2011, India's [[Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India)|Directorate General of Civil Aviation]] certified a Dhruv simulator developed by HAL and American developer [[CAE Inc.|CAE Inc]]; the simulator is easily modifiable to simulate different variants of the Dhruv and other helicopters such as the [[Eurocopter Dauphin]].<ref>{{cite web |first= Greg |last= Waldron |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/07/12/357273/india-certifies-first-dhruv-simulator.html |title= India certifies first Dhruv simulator |publisher= Flight International |date= 12 July 2011}}</ref> India’s [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] (DEBEL) has been developing an oxygen life-support system to improve helicopter's high-altitude performance, as of August 2010 the IAF has ordered development of this system for the Dhruv.<ref>{{cite web |first= Anantha |last= Kristnan M. |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?id=news/awx/2010/08/13/awx_08_13_2010_p0-247830.xml&topicName=India |title= India Develops Oxygen System for High-Altitude Helo Flights |publisher= Aviation Week |date= 13 August 2010}}</ref> == Design == [[File:IA Dhruv Berlin-08.jpg|thumb|Indian Army Dhruv at [[Internationale Luft- und Raumfahrtausstellung|ILA 2008]] ]] The HAL Dhruv is of conventional design; about 29 percent of its empty weight (constituting 60 percent of the airframe's surface area) is composite materials.<ref name= "Brasseys99 p298">Taylor 1998, p. 298.</ref> It has been reported that the unique [[carbon fibre]] composite developed by HAL reduced the helicopter's weight by 50%.<ref name ="datta14"/> The high tail boom allows easy access to the rear doors. The twin 1000&nbsp;shp Turbomeca TM333-2B turboshafts are mounted above the cabin and drive a four-blade composite main rotor. The main rotor can be manually folded; the blades are mounted between carbon-fibre-reinforced plates, the rotor head is constructed from fibre elastomers.<ref name= "JAWA03 p185"/> In February 2004, US helicopter company [[Lord Corporation]] were awarded a contract to develop an active vibration control system (AVCS), which monitors onboard conditions and cancels out fuselage vibrations.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Lord wins Dhruv active vibration control deal |journal=[[Flight International]] |issue=3–9 February 2004 |page=p. 27 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2004/2004-04%20-%200029.html}}</ref> The cockpit section of the fuselage is of [[Kevlar]] and [[carbon-fibre]] construction; it is also fitted with [[crumple zone]]s and [[crashworthiness|crashworthy]] seats. The aircraft is equipped with a SFIM Inc four-axis automatic flight control system. Avionics systems include a HF/UHF communications radio, [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]] recognition, Doppler navigation, and a radio altimeter; a weather radar and the Omega navigation system were options for the naval variant.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempGaurdsOffHome.aspx?MnId=M1YqbUPxvIo=&ParentID=pt1+ZmXUE8Y= |title= Equipment: Dhruv |publisher= Indian Army |accessdate= 24 August 2011}}</ref> IAI has also developed targeting systems and an [[electronic warfare]] suite for the Dhruv, as well as avionics for day-and-night flight observation.<ref name= 'flight201101'/> HAL's claim that the Dhruv is indigenous has been challenged by [[Comptroller and Auditor General of India]], who reported that as of August 2010 the helicopter was: "...against the envisaged indigenisation level of 50% (by 2008), 90% of the value of material used in each ALH is still imported from foreign suppliers".<ref>{{cite news |url= http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-08-06/india/28310212_1_alhs-advanced-light-helicopter-cag |title= Indigenous? Dhruv advanced light helicopters are '90% foreign' |publisher= The Times of India |date= 6 August 2010}}</ref> In September 2010, it was reported that the Dhruv's Integrated Dynamic System (IDS), which combines several key rotor control functions into a single module carrying the engine's power to the rotors,<ref name= "JAWA03 p185">Jackson 2003, p. 185.</ref> was suffering from excessive wearing and was necessitating frequent replacement; as a consequence the cruising speed had been restricted to 250&nbsp;km/h and high-altitude performance was lessened as well.<ref name= "busstad 092010">Shukla, Ajai, "Indian Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter gets Italian makeover ", Business Standard, 12 September 2010.</ref> HAL contracted Italian aerospace firm [[Avio]] for consultancy purposes, Avio replicated production of the IDS in Italy in order to isolate the problem; the early testing of the Dhruv has been criticised as "rushed".<ref name= "busstad 092010"/> In June 2011 HAL has reported that the issue was now resolved and not present in the Dhruv Mk III, a number of alterations both to the design and production had been made to improve the IDS; a programme of retrofitting the Mk I and Mk II was also completed by June 2011.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-06-01/news/29608382_1_light-combat-helicopter-lch-attack-helicopters/2 |title= Hindustan Aeronautics sees spike in light combat helicopter orders |publisher= The India Times |date= 1 June 2011}}</ref> ==Operational History== === Indian service === [[File:Army Aviation India deploying US troops.jpg|thumb|right|An [[Indian Army]] Dhruv participating in a joint military exercise with the [[U.S Army]].]] Deliveries of the Dhruv commenced in January 2002, over nine years after the prototype's first flight, and nearly eighteen years after the program was initiated.<ref name= "JAWA03 p184"/> The [[Indian Coast Guard]] was the first service to operate the Dhruv. This was followed by the [[Indian Army]], [[Indian Navy]], [[Indian Air Force]] and the [[Border Security Force]]. 75 Dhruvs were delivered to the Indian armed forces by 2007, as of 2008 it is planned to produce 40 helicopters annually.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 | title=Peru, Ecuador Place Orders for HAL Dhruv ALH Helicopters | publisher=India Defence | date=29 June 2008 | accessdate=1 August 2011}}</ref> The [[Indian Air Force]]'s [[Sarang (military)|Sarang]] aerobatic display team performs using 4 Dhruv helicopters.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2008-07-14/news/28441034_1_dhruv-helicopters-sarang-farnborough-air-show | title=Dhruv helicopter display in Farnborough Air Show | work=Economic Times | date=14 Jul 2008 | accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> In 2007, a further order for 166 helicopters were placed with HAL by the Indian Army.<ref>{{cite web |first= Ajai |last= Shukla|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=333870 |title=Light Combat Helicopter to fly soon: India's New Helicopters: Part II |date= 9 September 2008 |work=Business Standard|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm |title= HAL’s Dhruv gets CCS approval |publisher= The Hindu |date= 23 December 2007 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> India may order up to 12 ambulance variant Dhruvs, outfitted with an onboard emergence medical suite, to be used by the Armed Forces Medical Services for [[MEDEVAC]] purposes.<ref name= 'army ambulances'/> The Dhruv is required to fly at high altitudes, a crucial requirement for the Army to operate around the [[Siachen Glacier]] and [[Jammu and Kashmir|Kashmir]] region. In September 2007, the Dhruv Mk.3 was cleared for high-altitude flying in the Siachen Sector after six months of trials.<ref>[http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070024815 "Dhruv helicopter set to fly in Siachen"], ''[[NDTV]]'', 3 September 2007</ref><ref>[http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-02-20/india/27883994_1_test-trials-dhruv-siachen "Dhruv clears trials to fly high in Siachen"], ''[[The Times of India]]'', 20 February 2007. Retrieved 8 October 2007.</ref> In October 2007, a Dhruv Mk.3 flew to an altitude of {{convert|27500|ft|m}} [[Above sea level|ASL]] in Siachen;<ref>[http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-10-08/bangalore/27974986_1_pilots-icy-winds-altitude "Bangalore ALH pilots fly high"], ''Times of India'', 8 October 2007.</ref> two years earlier a [[Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama|HAL Cheetal]] (the [[Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama|HAL Cheetah]] powered by the Shakti engine) had set a world altitude record, landing at {{convert|25150|ft|m}} on Sasar Kangi peak in Siachen.<ref>Gaur 2007, p. 227.</ref> An Indian Army report in 2009 criticised the performance of the Dhruv, stating: ''"The ALH was not able to fly above 5,000m, though the army's requirements stipulated an ability to fly up to 6,500m"''; this has been blamed on the TM333 engine, the Army had to continue relying on the older Cheetah/Cheetal helicopters to meet the shortfall.<ref>{{cite web |first= Radhakrishna |last= Rao |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/07/15/329681/indian-report-slams-performance-of-hals-dhruv-helicopter.html |title= Indian report slams performance of HAL's Dhruv helicopter |publisher= Flight International |date= 15 July 2009}}</ref> The more powerful Shakti engine has since been introduced on the Dhruv Mk.3, on one test it carried 600&nbsp;kg load to Sonam Post against the Army's target of 200&nbsp;kg.<ref>{{cite web |first= Ajai |last= Shukla |url= http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/ |title= In Siachen, Dhruv proves a world-beater |publisher= Business Standard |date= 7 March 2011}}</ref> The first batch of Dhruv Mk.3's was received by the Indian Army during [[Aero India]] 2011.<ref>[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/dhruv/ Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), India]</ref> [[File:ALH Aerobatic.JPG|thumb|left|The prototype Dhruv-WSI performing at [[Aero India]] 2009]] In October 2008, Defence Minister [[A. K. Antony]] announced that the Indian Navy will deploy the Dhruv in the utility role. The proposed anti-submarine warfare (ASW) variant will not be pursued as it was deemed unsuited to the Navy's requirements, the Navy has been dissatified by the Dhruv's folding blade performance and its maintenance record.<ref name= "flight132007"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/Nation/2008-10-22/478115news.html |title=Navy has not rejected Dhruv: Defence Minister |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=22 October 2008|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> The Navy has considered using the Dhruv for maritime survellance and search and rescue roles;<ref>Sakhuja 2011, p. 106.</ref> however in 2008 a senior Navy official said: ''"The ALH has a long way to go before the programme matures sufficiently for it to undertake basic naval roles such as search and rescue (SAR) and communication duties."''<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/Print/317015.aspx |title = Navy plans to ditch Dhruv helicopters |publisher = Hindustan Times |date = 12 June 2008}}</ref> In 2007, the Navy issued a request for information (RPI) to manufacturers such as HAL, [[Eurocopter]], and [[Boeing]] for a new main helicopter for ASW and other operations;<ref name= "flight132007">{{cite web |first= Siva |last= Govindasamy |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/11/13/219256/indian-navy-opens-up-utility-helicopter-requirement.html |title= Indian navy opens up utility helicopter requirement |publisher= Flight International |date= 13 November 2007}}</ref> HAL has considered developing a new 10-12 ton indigenous ASW helicopter.<ref name= 'flight152005'/><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2006/02/28/205173/hal-seeks-new-partner-to-develop-10t-helicopters.html |title= HAL seeks new partner to develop 10t helicopters |publisher= Flight International |date= 28 February 2006}}</ref> HAL also produces a civilian variant of the Dhruv for transport, rescue, policing, offshore operations and air-ambulance role, among others.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hal-india.com/helicopter/products.asp |title=Our Products|work=Helicopter Division Bangalore|publisher=HAL |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> The [[National Disaster Management Authority]] (NDMA) has placed an order for 12 Dhruv helicopters, to feature a full medical suite, including ventilators and two stretchers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/Jan202007/state149362007120.asp|title=NDMA to get 12 ALHs |work=Deccan Herald |date=20 January 2007|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> In April 2008, HAL chairman [[Ashok Baweja]] confirmed that India's [[Ministry of Home Affairs (India)|Home Ministry]] had "placed an order for six ALHs"<ref name= "mail.hal-india.com">{{cite web|last=Pubby|first=Manu|title=India bags $20 mn helicopter contract|work=The Indian Express|accessdate=21 August 2011|date=10 August 2008}}</ref> The [[Geological Survey of India]] (GSI) wants one Dhruv, the [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] will use the Dhruv for offshore operations; and several Indian state governments plan to purchase for police and transportation duties.<ref name= 'army ambulances'>{{cite web|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-likely-to-get-rs-420-crore-order-for-air-ambulances/294869/|first1=Bibhu Ranjan |last1=Mishra|first2=Praveen|last2=Bose |title=HAL likely to get Rs420 crore order for air ambulances |work=Business Standard |date=17 August 2007|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> In March 2011, India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation released a proposed airworthiness directive asking all civilian operators of the Dhruv to temporarily ground their aircraft due to cracks that could form in the tail area, and recommended the reinforcement of affected areas.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:PkNqoKJmEMIJ:www.dgca.nic.in/AD/PAD%252011-003.pdf+Dhruv+IGB&hl=en&gl=uk&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESggGy77S54H6w3bNyHh63KEDMIVALM5N8Pt-BF-ss0EEhpY816kfuqpp5fnN7O4turdhT4caX-RwjZYDa9R_wU4_qS6N7Rr1aNYgi_RGK8JmLf3c13axtWo0szGWk9sYmbB6rJp&sig=AHIEtbQ4TFRpN720p_-52GERxm7lBrof8w |title= Proposed Airworthiness Directive |publisher= Directorate General of Civil Aviation |date= 22 March 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first= Anantha |last= Kristnan M. |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awx/2011/03/24/awx_03_24_2011_p0-301183.xml&channel=comm |title= India DGCA wants all Dhruv Civil Variants Inspected |publisher= Aviation Week |date= 24 March 2011}}</ref> Four Dhruv helicopters conducted rescue operations following the [[2011 Sikkim earthquake]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/earthquake-in-sikkim-over-5000-troops-9-choppers-dispatched-to-quake-hit-areas/articleshow/10038511.cms |title= Earthquake in Sikkim: Over 5,000 troops, 9 choppers dispatched to quake-hit areas |publisher= Economic times |date= 19 September 2011}}</ref> In October 2011, Jharkhand's regional government issued an urgent appeal for [[Mil Mi-17]] helicopters, as operations of their Dhruvs had been disrupted by prolonged maintenance delays and a major crash.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://telegraphindia.com/1111022/jsp/frontpage/story_14653990.jsp |title = State copter out of action, pilots idle - On 9-month upkeep break |publisher = Telegraph India |date = 22 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111020/jsp/frontpage/story_14645424.jsp |title = SOS to Centre for MI-17s |publisher = Indian Telegraph |date = 19 October 2011}}</ref> === Foreign sales === ====Overview==== The Dhruv has become the first major Indian weapons system to have secured large foreign sales. In 2004 HAL stated that it hoped to sell 120 Dhruvs over the next eight years,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://archives.digitaltoday.in/indiatoday/20050214/defence.html|first1=Sandeep|last1=Unnithan | title=Getting A Boost | work=India Today|date=14 February 2004 | accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> and has been displaying the Dhruv at airshows, including [[Farnborough Airshow|Farnborough]] and [[Paris Air Show|Paris]] in order to market the Dhruv.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050617/nation.htm#1 |title= Dhruv, IJT attract buyers in Paris |first= Jangveer|last= Singh|work=[[The Tribune]]|date=17 June 2005|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> HAL has entered into a partnership with Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) to develop and promote the Dhruv, IAI has also helped develop new avionics and a [[glass cockpit]] for newer variants of the Dhruv.<ref name= 'Singh 536'>Singh 2008, p. 536.</ref> With a unit price at least 15% less than its rivals, Dhruv has elicited interest in many countries, mostly from Latin America, Africa, West Asia, South East Asia and the Pacific Rim nations. Air forces from around 35 countries have sent in their inquiries, along with requests for demonstrations.<ref name= "Huma">{{cite web|first=Huma |last=Siddiqui|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/HAL-on-a-Dhruv-ride-in-LatAm/335468/0|title= HAL on a Dhruv ride in LatAm|work=Financial Express|date=15 July 2008|accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> Flight certification for Europe and North America has also been planned in order to tap the large civilian market there.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/drdo-looks-beyond-hal-for-tejas-production/429598/ | title=DRDO looks beyond HAL for Tejas production | publisher=Business Standard | date=24 March 2011 | accessdate=21 August 2011}}</ref> ====Asia==== The first foreign orders for the Dhruv were placed by [[Nepal]] in early 2004, for 2 Dhruvs.<ref>India to sell 2 Advanced Light Helicopters to Nepal. ''Islamic Republic News Agency'', 11 February 2004.</ref> The Dhruv has also been offered to Malaysia,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2004/12/24/stories/2004122401440700.htm |title=HAL hopes to see Dhruv copters on Malaysian shopping list |publisher=The Hindu Business Line |date=24 December 2004 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> Indonesia is also evaluating Dhruv for the Indonesian Army.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14854661 |title=HAL aircraft to fly in Ecuador skies |publisher=Sify.com |date=11 February 2009 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> In 2007, India was reported as planning to transfer several Dhruvs to [[Burma]], prompting protests from [[Amnesty International]], who pointed to the use of components sourced from European suppliers as a possible violation of the [[European Union]] (EU) Arms Embargo of Burma.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6900052.stm#map "'Threat' to EU-Burma embargo"], ''[[BBC News]], 16 July 2007. Retrieved 8 October 2007.</ref> In a letter to the President of the EU Council of Ministers, Amnesty stated that it had evidence that India planned to transfer two Dhruvs with European components to Burma.<ref>[http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,,,COUNTRYREP,IND,,46a75e132,0.html "Indian helicopters for Myanmar: making a mockery of the EU arms embargo?".] [[Amnesty International]], 16 July 2007.</ref><ref>Prashanth GN. [http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-10-08/bangalore/27974986_1_pilots-icy-winds-altitude "Bangalore ALH pilots fly high".] ''The Times of India'', 8 October 2007.</ref><ref>[http://www.amnesty-eu.org/enwiki/static/documents/2007/B689India_arms_sales_to_Myanmar.pdf Letter to the President of the EU Council of Ministers]</ref> These reports have been denied by the Indian Government.<ref>''Taipei Times'', p. 5, 17 July 2007. Quote: A government source who asked not to be named, denied any wrongdoing and said India "does not attach much credence to reports by Amnesty International. India does give defense hardware support to Myanmar but the equipment is not offensive … and not top of the line technology," said the source, asserting that Myanmar was helping in the battle against insurgents in India's northeast. Another Indian official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said that the technology concerned was for communications only and not for offensive operations.</ref> ====South America==== [[File:Dhruv Ecuador.jpg|thumb|right|Dhruv helicopters of the [[Ecuadorian Air Force]] ]] HAL also secured an order from the [[Ecuadorian Air Force]] (EAF) for 7 Dhruvs. HAL won the order amidst strong competition from [[Elbit]], [[Eurocopter]] and Kazan. HAL's offer of {{USD}}50.7 million for seven helicopters was about 32% lower than the second lowest bid from Elbit.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=39794 |title=HAL Bags Order from Ecuador |publisher=Pib.nic.in |date= |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> 5 helicopters were delivered in February 2009, during Aero India 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-to-hand-over-first-export-dhruvs/00/24/348441/ |title=HAL to hand over first export Dhruvs |publisher=Business Standard |date=9 February 2009 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> Both the [[Ecuadorian Army]] and [[Ecuadorian Navy]] have since expressed interest in the Dhruvs.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 | title=Ecuador Place Orders for HAL Dhruv ALH Helicopters | publisher=Indian Defence | accessdate=13 August 2011}}</ref> The Dhruv has been involved in search and rescue, transport, and MEDIVAC missions in the north of the country.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.elcomercio.com/seguridad/FAE-defiende-helicopteros-Dhruv_0_526147479.html |title = La FAE defiende a los helicópteros Dhruv |publisher = Elcomercio.com |date = 29 July 2011}}</ref> Following the crash of one of the Dhruv helicopters during a ceremony in October 2009, it was reported that Ecuador considered sending their six helicopters back to HAL amid claims that the aircraft were unfit for service;<ref>{{cite web |url= http://news.oneindia.in/2009/10/30/ecuador-to-return-6-indian-dhruv-choppers.html |title= Ecuador to return 6 Indian Dhruv choppers |publisher= OneIndia News |date= 30 October 2009}}</ref> EAF commander Rodrigo Bohorquez stated ''"If it is a major problem that can't be easily remedied, we would have to return [the Dhruv]."'' HAL assisted in the investigation into the crash, which later found the cause to be pilot error.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article65330.ece |title = Probe finds pilot error caused Dhruv crash in Ecuador |publisher = The Hindu |date = 15 December 2009 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> In February 2011, it was reported that the EAF were satisfied with the Dhruv's performance and were considering further orders.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-plans-treat-for-aero-india/424032/ |title = HAL plans treat for Aero India |publisher = Business Standard |date = 4 February 2011}}</ref> In July 2011, it was reported that Ecuador has had issues with the Dhruv's maintenance, such as a ''"poor after sales service, expensive spares and... over-invoicing"'';<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.defencenow.com/news/255/india%E2%80%99s_%E2%80%98dhruv%E2%80%99_helicopter_falls_under_the_scanner_as_ecuador_expresses_dissatisfaction.html |title= India’s ‘Dhruv’ Helicopter falls under the Scanner as Ecuador Expresses Dissatisfaction |publisher= DefenceNow |date= 29 July 2011}}</ref> the authenticity of these reports has been challenged by HAL and the EAF.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.elcomercio.com/seguridad/FAE-defiende-helicopteros-Dhruv_0_526147479.html |title = La FAE defiende a los helicópteros Dhruv |publisher = El Comercio |date = 19 July 2011}}</ref> Dhruv also participated in a Chilean tender for eight to ten 5.5 tonne, twin-engined helicopter, but lost to the [[Bell 412]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2007/12/10/daily19.html |title=Chile inks contract with Bell for 412 |publisher=Dallas Business Journal |date= 12 December 2007}}</ref> there has been media accusations of unfair pressure being exercised by the US Government to favour Bell.<ref name= "Huma" /><ref>{{cite news |url=http://article.wn.com/view/2008/05/04/US_pressure_robs_chopper_order_from_Hindustan_Aeronautics/ |title=US pressure robs chopper order from Hindustan Aeronautics |publisher=''The India Times'' |date=4 May 2008 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> The Dhruv had conducted a series of evaluation flights to demonstrate criteria such as long distance flight, avionics capabilities, vertical climb and maneuvering capabilities, and the helicopter's ability to cope with various weather conditions.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.iai.co.il/23048-32414-en/MediaRoom_NewsArchives_2004.aspx?PageNum=2 |title= Indian Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters Demonstrated to Chilean Air Force, Army, and Naval Aviation units |publisher= Israel Aerospace Industries |date= 25 July 2004}}</ref> HAL is negotiating with Bolivia for a potential five Dhruvs; and with Venezuela for seven.<ref name= "dhruv sale"/> In June 2008, the government of [[Peru]] ordered two [[air ambulance]] Dhruvs for use by the Peruvian health services.<ref name= 'peruorder'>{{cite web |url= http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-secures-copter-order-peru/326924/ |title= HAL secures copter order from Peru |author= Bose, Praveen and Ravi Menon |publisher= Business Standard |date= 24 June 2008 |accessdate= 26 August 2011}}</ref> ====Others==== A civilian Dhruv was leased to the [[Israeli Defense Ministry]] in 2004, IAI has also made use of the Defense Ministry's Dhruv for marketing and public relations purposes.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/jpost/access/844905841.html?dids=844905841:844905841&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=May+26%2C+2005&author=ARIEH+O'SULLIVAN&pub=Jerusalem+Post&desc=Defense+Ministry+leases+Indian-made+chopper+to+ferry+VIPs&pqatl=google |title= Defense Ministry leases Indian-made chopper to ferry VIPs |first= Arieh |last= O'Sullivan |publisher= Jerusalem Post |date= 26 May 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first= Rakesha |last= Sinha |url= http://www.indianexpress.com/oldStory/61078/ |title= Dhruv to spread wings in Israel fleet this January |publisher= The Indian Express |date= 18 December 2004}}</ref> Indian diplomats tried to encourage Israel to purchase the Dhruv, but were unsuccessful.<ref name ="datta14">Datta 2008, p. 14.</ref> In July 2006, Air Force Commander of India [[Shashindra Pal Tyagi]] commented that India was ready to buy as many as 80 [[Mil Mi-17|Mi-17]] transport helicopters if Russia were to purchase a large batch of Dhruv helicopters in exchange.<ref>{{cite web |first= Alexandra |last= Gritskova |url= http://dlib.eastview.com/browse/doc/9768842 |title= Military Cooperation, Russian MI-17 to Land in India |publisher = Kommersant |date= 11 July 2006}}</ref> In April 2010, the Indian Navy gifted a Dhruv to the [[Maldives National Defence Force]] for conducting search and rescue operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://airforcenews.ru/play/bFHv1t0oPno/MALDIVES_RECEIVES_IT%2527S_DHRUV_HELICOPTER_%252C_GIVEN_BY_INDIAN_GOVT..html | title=HAL Dhru to Maldives |publisher= airforcenews.ru |accessdate=13 August 2011}}</ref> On 10 August 2008, HAL's chairman confirmed a deal had been finalized with [[Turkey]] to supply 3 Dhruvs for {{USD}}20 million; Turkey is planning to buy as many as 17 helicopters in medical assistance role.<ref name= "dhruv sale">{{cite web|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?tp=on&autono=42237 |title=HAL in negotiations with S American countries |publisher=Business Standard |date=16 July 2008 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref><ref name= "Indian Express-1">Pubby, Manu. [http://www.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844/ "India bags $20 mn helicopter contract"]. ''The Indian Express''. (online edition). 10 August 2008. Retrieved 30 August 2008.</ref> ==Variants== {{Missing information|civil, naval and medical variants|date=September 2011}} ;Mk.1: Initial configuration with a conventional cockpit with mechanical gauges and Turbomeca TM 333-2B2 turboshaft engines. A total of 56 delivered to the Indian military.<ref name ='hirsch 50'>Hirschberg 2011, p. 50.</ref> ;Mk.2: Similar to the Mk.1, except has the newer HAL-IAI [[glass cockpit]]. A total of 20 delivered to the Indian military.<ref name ='hirsch 50'/> ;Mk.3: The Mk.3 variant is substantially different to early Dhruvs. Fitted with Shakti engines, a new electronic warfare (EW) suite and warning systems, automatic chaff and flare dispensers, and an improved vibration control system.<ref name= "mk.3">{{cite web|url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awx/2011/03/07/awx_03_07_2011_p0-294228.xml&channel=defense |title=HAL To Deliver More Dhruv Mk. 3 Helicopters |publisher=Aviation week |date=7 March 2011 |accessdate=6 September 2011}}</ref> ;Dhruv-WSI (Weapons system Integrated):Also designated ''HAL Rudra'' :;Mk.3: Dhruv-WSI with EW, countermeasures, and targeting systems installed, but without weapons capabilities.<ref name ='hirsch 51'>Hirschberg 2011, p. 51.</ref><ref>[http://www.indiastrategic.in/topstories1200_ALH_touches_20000_feet.htm ALH touches 20,000 feet and Cheetal 23,000]</ref> :;Mk.4: Dhruv-WSI with turret gun, rockets, air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles weapon systems installed.<ref name ='hirsch 51'/> == Operators == === Military operators === [[File:World operators of HAL Dhruv by 2009.PNG|thumb|right|Operators of HAL Dhruv]] [[File:HAL Dhruv of Sarang Display Team at Aero India 2011.jpg|thumb|A Dhruv, in Sarang display markings, at [[Aero India]] 2011]] [[File:Sarang 2.jpg|thumb|right|Two Sarang Dhruvs performing close flight maneuvers]] ;{{IND}} * [[Army Aviation Corps (India)|Indian Army Aviation Corps]] (~40) * [[Indian Air Force]] (~35) * [[Indian Navy]] (8) * [[Indian Coast Guard]] (9) * [[Border Security Force]] (8 on order)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.livemint.com/2009/05/20163444/BSF-gets-Rs360-crore-for-raisi.html?h=B |title=BSF gets Rs360 crore for raising 29 new battalions |publisher=Livemint.com |date=20 May 2009 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> ;{{ECU}} *[[Ecuadorian Air Force]] (7)<ref>K. Gopinathan.[http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/27/stories/2008062750080100.htm "HAL to supply 7 Dhruv helicopters to Ecuador"]. ''The Hindu'', 27 June 2008. Retrieved 30 August 2008.</ref> ;{{MRI}} *Mauritius Police Force<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.netnewspublisher.com/mauritius-police-force-acquires-sophisticated-helicopter-from-india-for-coastal-patrol/ |title=Mauritius acquires sophisticated helicopter from India for coastal patrol |publisher=Apanews.net |date=1 March 2009 |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> ;{{MDV}} * [[Maldives National Defence Force|National Defence Force]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.haveeru.com.mv/english/details/30113 |title=Haveeru Online - India donates a helicopter to Maldives |publisher=Haveeru.com.mv |date=18 April 2010 |accessdate=24 August 2011}}</ref> === Civil operators === [[File:HAL Dhruv Ambulance Version.jpg|thumb|HAL Dhruv air ambulance in [[Bangalore]], [[India]].]] ;{{IND}} * [[Ministry of Home Affairs (India)|Ministry Of Home Affairs]] - (6)<ref name= "mail.hal-india.com"/> * [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] (ONGC) (3) * [[Chhattisgarh]] State Government<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm | title=HAL dhruv gets ccs approval | publisher=The Hindu |first =Ravi |last= Sharma | accessdate=21 August 2011 | location=Chennai, India | date=23 December 2007}}</ref> * [[Jharkhand]] State Government for VIP transportation and Police (2)<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/03/stories/2007090360691400.htm | title=HAL delivers Dhruv to Jharkhand | publisher=The Hindu | date=3 September 2007 | accessdate=21 August 2011 | location=Chennai, India}}</ref> * [[Karnataka]] State Government for VIP transportation (1){{Citation needed|date=August 2011}} * [[Geological Survey of India]] (GSI) (1 on order) * [[National Disaster Management Authority]] (NDMA) (12 on order) ;{{TUR}} * Turkish health services (3)<ref name= "Indian Express-1" /> ;{{PER}} * Peruvian health services (2 on order)<ref name= 'peruorder'/> == Incidents and accidents == * In November 2005, a Dhruv a crash-landed in Andhra Pradesh, causing the entire fleet to be grounded; the subsequent probe found a fault with the helicopter's tail rotor blades, which has since been corrected.<ref name= "deccanchronicle.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article123595.ece |title=IAF's Dhruv helicopter crash-lands in Jaisalmer |publisher=The Hindu|date=27 February 2010 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref><ref name= "outlookmar10">{{cite web |url= http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?369391 |title= Dhruv to resume service soon |publisher= Outlook India |date= 10 March 2006}}</ref> * On 2 February 2007, during rehearsals prior to [[Aero India]], a HAL Dhruv of the [[Sarang (military)|Sarang]] helicopter display team of the [[Indian Air Force]] crashed, killing co-pilot Squadron Leader Priye Sharma and wounding the pilot Wing Commander Vikas Jetley;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/news/india/2007/india-070202-irna02.htm|title=ALH helicopter crashes; IAF pilot killed ahead of Aero India show|accessdate=25 August 2007|publisher=globalsecurity.org}}</ref> Vikas Jetley died in January 2011 after being in a coma for over 3 years. It was concluded that the accident was caused by pilot error.{{Citation needed|date=August 2011}} The helicopter team continued to perform in the air show.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/02/03/stories/2007020321970300.htm | title=Sarang Incident | publisher=The Hindu | date=3 February 2007 | location=Chennai, India}}</ref> * In October 2009, a Dhruv helicopter of the Ecuadorian Air Force flew into terrain while attempting to fly in formation with two other helicopters close to an air force base near Quito. Air Force General Leonardo Barreiro told reporters that the helicopter had been destroyed in the crash.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.airforce-technology.com/news/news68521.html |title=Ecuador Air Force Grounds Dhruv Helicopters After Crash |publisher=Air Force Technology |date=30 October 2009}}</ref> The remaining six aircraft were grounded during the investigation, which later concluded pilot error to be the cause.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-12-16/india/28059402_1_pilot-error-dhruvs-crash |title= Pilot at fault for Dhruv crash in Ecuador: Probe |publisher= The Times of India |date= 16 December 2009}}</ref> * In February 2010, a Dhruv helicopter team of the Indian Air Force was forced to make a crash landing while rehearsing for the "Vayu Shakti" air power show. An IAF official was quoted as stating "Both pilots are safe after they had to make a controlled crash-landing due to loss of power in the chopper".<ref name= "deccanchronicle.com"/> * On 21 April 2011, four army personnel were killed in a Dhruv helicopter crash in north Sikkim.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article1717957.ece | work=The Hindu | title=Wreckage of Dhruv, bodies of 4 personnel found | date=22 March 2011 | location=Chennai, India}}</ref> *On 19 October 2011, a Dhruv operated by India's [[Border Security Force]] (BSF) crashed in north-east India, resulting in the deaths of the three crew onboard. Immediately following the crash, the remaining five Dhruvs of the CRPF were grounded.<ref>{{cite web |first = Manohar |last = Lal |url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/After-crash-CRPF-grounds-Dhruv-copters/articleshow/10435394.cms |title = After crash, CRPF grounds Dhruv copters |publisher = Times of India |date = 21 October 2011}}</ref> == Specifications (Dhruv) == [[File:Turbomeca Ardiden P1220827.jpg|thumb|The [[Shakti engine]] ]] {{aircraft specifications <!-- If you do not understand how to use this template, please ask at [[Wikipedia talk:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please answer the following questions. --> |plane or copter?= copter |jet or prop? = prop <!-- Now, fill out the specs. Please include units where appropriate (main comes first, alt in parentheses). If an item doesn't apply, like capacity, leave it blank. For additional lines, end your alt units with a right parenthesis ")" and start a new, fully-formatted line beginning with * --> |ref=Indian Army,<ref name= "Important Milestones">{{cite web | url=http://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempGaurdsOffHome.aspx?MnId=M1YqbUPxvIo=&ParentID=pt1+ZmXUE8Y= | title=Equipment: Dhruv | publisher=Indian Army | accessdate=August 13, 2011}}</ref> Crawford<ref>Crawford 2003, p. 39.</ref> |crew=1 or 2 pilots |capacity=4 to 12 passengers |length alt= 52 ft 0.8 in |length main= 15.87 m |span alt= 43 ft 3.7 in |span main= 13.20 m |height alt= 16 ft 4.06 in |height main=4.98 m |area alt= 1,472 ft² |area main= 137 m² |empty weight alt= 5,515 lb |empty weight main= 2,502 kg |useful load alt= 5731 lb |useful load main= 2,600 kg |max takeoff weight alt= 12,125 lb |max takeoff weight main= 5,500 kg |engine (prop)= [[Shakti engine|Shakti]] [[turboshaft]]s |type of prop= |number of props=2 |power alt= 1,400 shp<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turbomeca.com/public/turbomeca_v2/html/en/produits/sous_famille_home.php?sfid=506&mid=615 |title=Safran Group |publisher=Turbomeca |date= |accessdate=31 August 2010}}</ref> |power main= 1,000 kW |power original= <br>'''Alternate engine:''' 2 x [[Turbomeca]] [[Turbomeca TM 333|TM 333-2B2]] turboshaft, 746 kW (1,000 shp) |max speed alt= 180 mph, 156.58 kn |max speed main= 290 km/h |combat radius alt= 200 mi, 175 nmi |combat radius main= 320 km |ferry range alt= 516 mi, 447 nmi |ferry range main= 827 km |ceiling alt= 27,500 ft |ceiling main= 8,382 m |climb rate alt= 1,771 ft/min |climb rate main= 8.9 m/s |power/mass alt= 0.20 hp/lb |power/mass main= 329.73 W/kg |more performance= <!-- Armament: --> |missiles=<br /> **8 [[Anti-tank guided missile]]s **4 [[Air-to-air missile]]s **4 x 68 mm Rocket Pods (Air-Force & Army) **2 [[Torpedo]]es **[[Depth charge]]s or [[Anti-ship missile]]s <br>Note : The Weapon System Integration is still in progress and is not Operational }} == See also == {{Portal|Aviation}} {{aircontent |see also= |related= * [[HAL Light Combat Helicopter]] * [[HAL Light Observation Helicopter]] * [[HAL Medium Lift Helicopter|Indian Multi-role Helicopter]] (under development) |similar aircraft= * [[AgustaWestland AW139]] * [[Bell 412]] * [[Bell 429]] * [[Eurocopter EC 145]] * [[Kazan Ansat]] * [[MD Helicopters MD Explorer]] * [[Sikorsky S-76]] |sequence= |lists= * [[List of helicopters]] }} == References == ;Citations {{Reflist|2}} ;Bibliography {{Refbegin}} *{{cite book|last= Crawford |first= Steve |url= http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=bd5hQiT2JRgC&printsec=frontcover |title= Twenty-First Century Military Delicopters: Today's Fighting Gunships |publisher= Zenith Imprint |year= 2003 |isbn= 0 7603 1504 3}} *{{cite book|first = Saikat |last = Datta |url = http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=YzEEAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover |title = Hay After A Long Hover |publisher = Outlook Publishing |volume = 48(28) |date = 14 July 2008 |pages = 12–13}} *{{cite web|first = Mike |last = Hirschberg |url = http://www.vtol.org/vertiflite/halHelicopters.pdf |title = From Chetak to Dhruv: The History of HAL Helicopters |publisher = VertiFlite |date = Spring 2011 |pages = 46–52}} *{{cite book|last=Mahendra |first=Gaur |title= Indian Affairs Annual 2005 |publisher= Gyan Publishing House |year= 2007 |isbn= 8 1783 5434 9}} *{{cite book|last=Jackson|first=Paul|title=Jane's All The World's Aircraft 2003–2004|year=2003|publisher=Jane's Information Group|location=Coulsdon, UK|isbn=0 7106 2537 5}} *{{cite book|last= Kahn |first= J. A. |url= http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Na-V9H0dbrgC&printsec=frontcover |title= Air Power and Challenges to IAF |publisher= APH Publishing |year= 2004 |isbn= 8 1764 8593 4}} *{{cite book|last= Sakhuja |first=Vijay |title= Asian Maritime Power in the 21st Century: Strategic Transactions China, India and Southeast Asia |publisher= Institute of Southeast Asian Studies |year= 2011 |isbn= 9 8143 1109 X}} *{{cite web |author= Standing Committe on Defence |url= http://164.100.24.208/ls/CommitteeR/Defence/17threport.pdf |title= In-Depth Study and Critical Review of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) |publisher= Ministry of Defence |date= April 2007}} *{{cite book|last= Singh |first= Ashok Kumar |url= http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=CzV1MgFH6oMC&printsec=frontcover |title= Science and Technology for Civil Service |publisher= Tata McGraw-Hill Education |year= 2008 |isbn= 0 0706 5548 0}} {{Refend}} == External links == {{External links|date=September 2011}} {{Commons|HAL Dhruv}} * [http://www.hal-india.com/helicopter/products.asp#alh HAL Dhruv page] * [http://www.army-technology.com/projects/dhruv/ Dhruv – Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) @ Army-technology.com] * [http://www.jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=6504773 WSI (Weapons Systems Integrated) Dhruv] * [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_bqfOS6tG0 Video of HAL Dhruv Advertisement] * [http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Images/main.php?g2_itemId=3995 Digital cockpit of HAL Dhruv] * [http://www.hindustantimes.com/Images/2007/8/d0e3bdd1-6961-4c33-b9c8-46ffa079e176HiRes.JPG#@%23@%230 Armed version of Dhruv] * [http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Images/Current/Helicopters/Dhruv/ HAL Dhruv] * [http://www.misile-iai.com/17942-31715-en/Business_Areas_Military_Helicopter_Upgrades.aspx Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) - DHRUV IAI website] * [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_MfsPAAyzI Sarang helicopter display team performing at Aero-India] * [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1k6pFUgbb0&NR=1 Video of Dhruv helicopter] * [http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3404377241870370710 Video of HAL Dhruv performing at Farnborough 2006] * [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp009SS6QhM Video of Dhruv at Paris airshow 2007] {{HAL aircraft}} {{aviation lists}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Hal Dhruv}} [[Category:HAL aircraft|Dhruv, HAL]] [[Category:Indian helicopters 1990–1999]] [[Category:Military helicopters]] [[Category:Indian civil utility aircraft 1990–1999]] [[Category:Indian military utility aircraft 1990–1999]] [[cs:HAL Dhruv]] [[de:HAL Dhruv]] [[es:HAL Dhruv]] [[fr:HAL Dhruv]] [[gu:ધ્રુવ હેલીકોપ્ટર]] [[hi:एचएएल ध्रुव]] [[it:HAL Dhruv]] [[kn:ಹೆಚ್.ಎ.ಎಲ್ ಧ್ರುವ್]] [[ru:HAL Dhruv]] [[ta:எச்.ஏ.எல். துருவ்]]'