Bengaluru, 1992 (Retrospective): In a major stride towards self-reliance in aerospace technology, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) was indigenously developed in 1992 by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at its facility in Bangalore (now Bengaluru), Karnataka.
Designed for versatility, the ALH was built to serve both defence and civil operations, marking a significant achievement in India’s aviation capabilities. Equipped to operate in diverse terrains and extreme conditions, the helicopter has been extensively deployed by the Indian Armed Forces for transport, search and rescue, reconnaissance, and disaster relief missions.
Its adaptability also made it suitable for civilian use, including roles such as medical evacuation, VIP transport, and law enforcement. Over the years, the ALH has evolved with multiple variants, including the ‘Dhruv’, which has been praised for its reliability and performance.
The development of the ALH reinforced India’s commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing and continues to be a proud symbol of technological advancement in the country’s aviation sector.