Description

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Context

In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian Army has resumed limited operations of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv in the Anantnag region.

About ALH Dhruv

It is an indigenously developed, multi-role utility helicopter by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Initiated in 1984 with design assistance from Germany's Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm the Dhruv had its maiden flight in 1992 and was inducted into service in 2002.

It serves both military and civilian purposes with over 400 units produced as of January 2024.

Features

Approximately 29% of its empty weight comprises composite materials enhancing strength and reducing weight.

Features crashworthy airframe, landing gear and seats.

Equipped with a glass cockpit, four-axis automatic flight control system and integrated architecture display system.

Self-protection suite includes chaff and flare dispensers, infrared suppressors and electronic warfare systems.

Operational in diverse terrains including high-altitude regions like the Siachen Glacier.

Variants

Mk-I: Basic version with mechanical gauges.

Mk-II: Upgraded with glass cockpit.

Mk-III: Enhanced with Shakti engines, advanced avionics and self-protection systems.

Mk-IV (Rudra): Weaponized variant with integrated weapons systems.

Operational Significance

Employed by the Indian Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard for transport, reconnaissance, search and rescue and medical evacuation.

Played a crucial role in rescue operations during the 2013 North India floods demonstrating its agility and high-altitude performance.

Supplied to countries like Nepal, Mauritius and the Maldives marking India's foray into defense exports.

Utilized by organizations like the Geological Survey of India for geophysical surveys.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Details
Crew	2
Capacity	Up to 14 passengers
Maximum Speed	Approximately 250 km/h
Range	Around 630 km
Service Ceiling	Up to 6,000 meters
Empty Weight	Approximately 2,500 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight	Up to 5,500 kg

Challenges

As of January 2025, there have been reports of 20 to 23 ALH incidents over 23 years resulting in the loss of 17 pilots.

Certain variants were temporarily grounded following accidents leading to reviews and enhancements in safety protocols.

Sources:

HINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements about the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv is/are correct?

It was developed indigenously by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited with assistance from Russia.
It is type-certified for military operations by the Centre for Military Airworthiness Certification.
ALH Dhruv Mk-IV is a weaponized variant.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: b)

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The development was done with German assistance (Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm) not Russia.

Statement 2 is correct: It is type-certified by the Centre for Military Airworthiness Certification.

Statement 3 is correct: Mk-IV (also called Rudra) is the weaponized version.