Utility Helicopter
HAL Dhruv
The HAL Dhruv is an Indian twin-engine multirole utility helicopter, the Advanced Light Helicopter, designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in Bengaluru. It entered service in 2002, and more than 340 have been delivered to Indian services.
India|Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)Overview
The ALH Dhruv, named after the Pole Star, was designed with help from Germany’s MBB, later Eurocopter. It first flew on 30 August 1992 and entered service in 2002 after delays and a US sanctions-related engine problem. Two HAL and Safran Shakti turboshafts of about 1,000 kW each power the current models, while the Mk I used the TM 333-2B2. Maximum speed is about 291 km/h, range about 630 km and it seats 12 to 14 troops. It is certified for operations up to about 6,000 m.
Versions include the Mk I and Mk II for the Army and Air Force, the maritime Mk III for the Navy, the armed Rudra Mk IV, and the glass-cockpit Dhruv NG. The LCH Prachand is a derivative. More than 340 have been delivered as of 2024 to 2025, with counts differing by source. Exports went to Nepal, Mauritius and the Maldives. A Coast Guard Dhruv crashed in Gujarat in January 2025, and the fleet was grounded for checks. Unit price is around 5 to 8 million US dollars.
Key Specifications
Variants
The Dhruv Mk I is the original version for the Army and Air Force.
The Dhruv Mk III is the maritime version for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
The Dhruv NG is the next-generation version with a glass cockpit and 5.5 tonne weight.
Operators
India
Nepal
Mauritius
MaldivesFrequently Asked Questions
How much does the HAL Dhruv cost?
The HAL Dhruv costs around 5 to 8 million US dollars per helicopter according to industry sources. That is not an official figure, and prices vary by version.
How many HAL Dhruv helicopters does India have?
India has more than 340 HAL Dhruv helicopters delivered to its services as of 2024 to 2025. They serve with the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard and state governments, and exact counts differ by source.
Which countries use the HAL Dhruv?
The HAL Dhruv is confirmed in service with India, Nepal, Mauritius and the Maldives. Ecuador’s helicopters were retired after crashes, and no Arab country operates the type.
How fast is the HAL Dhruv?
The HAL Dhruv has a maximum speed of about 291 km/h and a range of about 630 km. It seats 12 to 14 troops and is certified up to about 6,000 m.
Dhruv vs T625 Gökbey: which is better?
The TUSAŞ T625 Gökbey is Türkiye’s own twin-engine utility helicopter in a similar class to the HAL Dhruv. The Dhruv has been in service since 2002 with more than 340 delivered, while the Gökbey is newer.
What is the Rudra helicopter?
The Rudra is the armed version of the HAL Dhruv for the Army and Air Force. It can carry a 20 mm turreted gun, rockets and air-to-air missiles as a stop-gap before the LCH Prachand.