Next-Gen ‘Dhruv NG’ multi-role helicopter takes to skies in Bengaluru

India’s aerospace sector reached new heights with the inaugural flight of the Dhruv NG in Bengaluru on December 30. This homegrown, multi-role civil helicopter is specifically designed to end the nation's reliance on imported light twin-engine aircraft.

Dhruv-NG helicopter.

Credit: PTI

Credit: PTI

The Dhruv NG, a next-generation, multi-role civil helicopter, made its first flight in Bengaluru on December 30, 2025.

Credit: PTI

This is a significant achievement in the country’s indigenous aerospace manufacturing and offers a homegrown alternative to imported light twin-engine helicopters.

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Calling it a symbol of the country's capability, Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu flagged off the HAL-made helicopter.

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Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu also performed puja before the flight inaugural ceremony.

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Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu poses for a photo during the inaugural flight ceremony of a Dhruv-NG helicopter at the Helicopter Division in Bengaluru.

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A Dhruv-NG helicopter during its inaugural flight at the Helicopter Division in Bengaluru.

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Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to cater to the civil aviation market, the helicopter offers modern features in ride quality and safety, according to officials.

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The Dhruv NG, a 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine helicopter designed for India's challenging terrain, has been upgraded to meet the global civil aviation market's demands, officials said.

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The Dhruv-NG helicopter was accorded a ceremonial water cannon salute on landing.