Dhruv-NG (Next Generation)

Why in News?

Recently, the Pawan Hans Limited has secured a 10-year contract for Rs. 2,141 crore to deliver 4 Dhruv-NG helicopters to the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).

• Dhruv-NG (Next Generation) – It is a multi-role, multi-mission helicopter.
• It is the civil variant of the Dhruv Mk III, which is widely employed by Indian defense forces.
• Developed by – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• Weight – 5.5 tonne.
• Powered by – 2 indigenous Shakti engines with Cat ’A’ performance.
• Specialty – It is capable of day and night operations.
• It is also fitted with AS4 (Applicability Statement) compliant systems.
• It received a restricted type certificate from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in June 2023.
• For ONGC operation – This will be the 1^st time the chopper will be deployed in offshore operations like transporting staff to and from duty stations on oil and gas rigs.

Pawan Hans has been a key industry player in the Indian offshore industry, providing helicopter services to ONGC, British Gas, HOECL, Petro Gas, and others.

• Significance - It is a “reliable and cost-effective product’ for service provider Pawan Hans Limited.

These Dhruv-NG helicopters are scheduled to go into service in 2025, largely to meet Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) crew change requirements.

References

1. The Hindu| Dhruv-NG
2. Business Standard| Advanced Light Helicopter-Dhruv