View source for HAL Dhruv

{{Short description|Indian made helicopter}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines. -->
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2013}}

{{Infobox aircraft
| name = Dhruv
| image = Indian air force dhruv helicopter j4042 arp.jpg
| caption = Dhruv Mk.I with the [[Sarang display team]]
| type = [[Utility helicopter]]
| national_origin = India
| designer = <!--Only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders-->
| manufacturers = [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]]
| design_group = Rotary Wing Research and Design Center<ref>{{cite news |title=Rotary Wing |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Rotary%20Wing/M__326 |access-date=9 October 2021 |agency=Hindustan Aeronautics Limited |archive-date=9 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211009163535/https://hal-india.co.in/Rotary%20Wing/M__326 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| first_flight = 20 August 1992<ref name= "Important Milestones">{{cite web |url= http://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempSimple.aspx?MnId=69s3HPZPfI4zz/q8SP2vlw==&ParentID=XKXzQohnNlR8lLkeT6DXDw== |title=Equipment: Dhruv |publisher=Indian Army |access-date= 13 August 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141021144927/http://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempSimple.aspx?MnId=69s3HPZPfI4zz%2Fq8SP2vlw%3D%3D&ParentID=XKXzQohnNlR8lLkeT6DXDw%3D%3D |archive-date= 21 October 2014}}</ref>
| introduction = March 2002<ref name= jawa>{{cite book|first1= Paul |last1= Jackson |first2=Kenneth|last2=Munson|first3= Lindsay|last3=Peacock|title= Jane's All the World's Aircraft |year= 2004 |publisher= Jane's |location= Coulsdon |isbn= 0-71062614-2 |edition= 95th | issue = 2004–2005}}</ref>
| retired = 
| status = In service
| primary_user = [[Indian Army]]<!--Limit one (1) primary user. Top 4 users listed in 'primary user' and 'more users' fields based on number of their fleets. -->
| more_users = [[Indian Air Force]] <br />[[Indian Navy]] <br /> See ''[[#Operators|Operators]]''<!--Limit is three (3) TOTAL in 'more users' field (4 total users). Listed in by number in use, i.e. top users listed.  Please separate with <br />.-->
| produced = 1992–present
| number_built = 400+ (January 2024)<ref name=theprint>{{cite news|url=https://theprint.in/defence/over-400-indigenous-dhruv-and-its-variant-helicopters-built-since-2002-but-at-least-23-crashed/1178686/|title=Over 400 indigenous Dhruv and its variant helicopters built since 2002, but at least 23 crashed|first=Snehesh Alex|last=Philip|date=22 October 2022|work=The Print|access-date=21 March 2024}}</ref>
| developed_from = 
| variants = [[HAL Rudra]]
| developed_into = [[HAL Prachand]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Aero India: HAL showcases new helicopter designs |url=http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/aero-india-hal-showcases-new-helicopter-/ |access-date=31 July 2012 |newspaper=Shephard |date=10 February 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220125905/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/aero-india-hal-showcases-new-helicopter-/ |archive-date=20 February 2015}}</ref>
}}

The '''HAL Dhruv''' ({{Lit|Unshakeable}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary - ध |url=https://sanskrit.inria.fr/MW/130.html |access-date=2021-03-18 |website=sanskrit.inria.fr |archive-date=21 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921162720/https://sanskrit.inria.fr/MW/130.html |url-status=live }}</ref> is a [[utility helicopter]] designed and developed by [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] (HAL) in November 1984. The helicopter first flew in 1992; its development was prolonged due to multiple factors including the [[Indian Army]]'s requirement for design changes, budget restrictions, and sanctions placed on India following the 1998 [[Pokhran-II]] nuclear tests. Dhruv entered service in 2002. It is designed to meet the requirement of both military and civil operators, with military variants of the helicopter being developed for the [[Indian Armed Forces]], while a variant for civilian/commercial use has also been developed. Military versions in production include transport, utility, reconnaissance and medical evacuation variants.

{{asof|January 2024|post=,}} more than 400 Dhruvs had been produced for domestic and export markets logging more than 340,000 flying hours.<ref name=theprint/><ref name="bs-190122">{{cite web|url=http://www.businessworld.in/article/HAL-Signs-Contract-For-Export-Of-Dhruv-Helicopter-To-Mauritius/19-01-2022-418261/|title=HAL Signs Contract For Export Of Dhruv Helicopter To Mauritius|publisher=Business Standard|date=2022-01-19|first=Vishal|last=Thapar|access-date=20 January 2022|archive-date=20 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120082105/http://www.businessworld.in/article/HAL-Signs-Contract-For-Export-Of-Dhruv-Helicopter-To-Mauritius/19-01-2022-418261/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Development==

===Origins===
[[File:HAL Dhruv onboard INS Vikrant (R11) during sea trials.jpg|thumb|right|HAL Dhruv on board {{INS|Vikrant|2013|6}} during her sea trials]]

The ''Advanced Light Helicopter'' (ALH) program for an indigenous 5-ton multirole helicopter was initiated in May 1979 by the Indian Air Force and [[Indian Naval Air Arm]].<ref name ='hirsch 49'/> HAL were given a contract by the Indian government in 1984 to develop the helicopter;<ref name ='hirsch 49'/><ref>Datta 2008, p. 12.</ref> Germany's [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm]] (MBB) were contracted in July 1984 as a design consultant and collaborative partner on the programme.<ref name= "JAWA03 p185"/><ref name= 'khan 248'>Khan 2004, p. 248.</ref> Although originally scheduled to fly in 1989, the first prototype ALH (Z-3182) made its maiden flight on 20 August 1992 at [[Bangalore]] with the then-Indian Vice President [[K R Narayanan]] in attendance.<ref>Kahn 2004, pp. 248–249.</ref> This was followed by a second prototype (Z-3183) on 18 April 1993, an Army/Air Force version (Z-3268), and a navalised prototype (IN.901) with Allied Signal CTS800 engines and a retractable tricycle undercarriage.<ref name= "JAWA03 p184">Jackson, p. 184.</ref> Development problems arose due to changing military demands and a funding shortfall in the wake of the [[1991 Indian economic crisis]].<ref name ='hirsch 49'>Hirschberg 2011, p. 49.</ref>

Naval testing on board {{INS|Viraat}} and other ships started in March 1998, and around the same time a weight-reduction programme was initiated.<ref name='dhruv janes'>{{cite web |url= http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/HAL-Dhruv-India.html |title= HAL Dhruv (India), Aircraft – Rotary-wing – Civil/military |publisher= Jane's |date= 13 July 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120503102628/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-All-the-Worlds-Aircraft/HAL-Dhruv-India.html |archive-date= 3 May 2012 |df= dmy-all }}</ref> However, further delays in development were caused when sanctions were implemented against India following a number of [[Pokhran-II]] nuclear tests in 1998 and India's continued refusal to sign the [[Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty]]. As a result, the intended engine for the helicopter, the [[LHTEC T800]], was [[embargo]]ed.<ref name= 'dhruv janes'/><ref name="dhruv paris buslin">{{cite web |url= http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2005/07/05/stories/2005070500361800.htm |title= Dhruv on wings at Paris |work= Business Line |date= 5 July 2005 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120922083548/http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2005/07/05/stories/2005070500361800.htm |archive-date= 22 September 2012 |df= dmy-all |access-date= 13 August 2011 }}</ref> The [[Turbomeca]] TM 333-2B2 [[turboshaft]] engine was selected as a replacement; in addition, Turbomeca agreed to co-develop a more powerful engine with HAL, originally known as the ''[[Safran Ardiden|Ardiden]]''.<ref name= 'flight152005'>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2005/02/15/193906/aero-india-hal-to-target-maritime-contract.html |title= Aero India – HAL to target maritime contract |work= Flight International |date= 15 February 2005}}</ref> Turbomeca also assisted in the development of the helicopter; stress analysis and studies of rotor dynamics were conducted in France.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 24.</ref> The first flight of Dhruv with the new engine variant, called the [[HAL/Turbomeca Shakti|''Shakti'']], took place on 16 August 2007.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hal-india.com/dhruv-shakti.asp |title=Dhruvs with Shakti engine and weapons make maiden flight |publisher=HAL |access-date=31 August 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607100023/http://www.hal-india.com/dhruv-shakti.asp |archive-date=7 June 2011  }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/07/19/stories/2007071950150900.htm |title=Shakti-powered ALH to fly on August 1 |work=[[The Hindu]] |first=Ravi |last=Sharma |date=19 July 2007 |access-date=31 August 2010 |location=Chennai, India |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111019110353/http://www.hindu.com/2007/07/19/stories/2007071950150900.htm |archive-date=19 October 2011  }}</ref>

===Further development===

The [[HAL Rudra]], earlier known as Dhruv-WSI (''Weapons Systems Integrated''), is an attack variant designed for the Indian Army.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/army-to-soon-get-indigenous-weaponised-chopper-advanced-light-helicopter-rudra/articleshow/9857201.cms |title= Army to soon get indigenous weaponised chopper Advanced Light Helicopter 'Rudra' |work= The Times of India |date= 5 September 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171009040717/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/army-to-soon-get-indigenous-weaponised-chopper-advanced-light-helicopter-rudra/articleshow/9857201.cms |archive-date= 9 October 2017}}</ref> Development was sanctioned in December 1998<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 45.</ref> and the prototype first flew on 16 August 2007; it is to be armed with both anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, and a 20-mm turret-mounted cannon.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/17/stories/2007081762311700.htm |title= Weaponised version of Dhruv makes maiden flight |date= 17 August 2007 |location= Chennai, India |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121110125818/http://www.hindu.com/2007/08/17/stories/2007081762311700.htm |work= [[The Hindu]] |archive-date= 10 November 2012}}</ref> The Dhruv-WSI is to be capable of conducting [[Close air support|combat air support]] (CAS) and [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) roles as well.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, pp. 24–25.</ref> In addition to the Dhruv-WSI, HAL is also developing the [[HAL Prachand|light combat helicopter]] (LCH) based on the Dhruv for the Indian Armed Forces. It is fitted with stub wings for carrying up to eight anti-armour missiles, four air-to-air missiles, or four pods loaded with either 70&nbsp;mm or 68&nbsp;mm rockets. The LCH will also have [[forward-looking infrared]] (FLIR), a [[charge-coupled device]] (CCD) camera, and a target acquisition system with laser rangefinder and thermal vision.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Indigenous-combat-copter-takes-to-skies/articleshow/5966664.cms |title= Indigenous combat copter takes to skies |date= 24 May 2010 |access-date= 22 August 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date= 11 April 2016 |work= [[The Times of India]] |url-status= live }}</ref>

[[File:IA-1136 HAL Dhruv (Indian Army).jpg|thumb|left|A Dhruv of the Indian Army]]

In 2005, following a crash landing of a Dhruv, the entire fleet was grounded when it was discovered to have been caused by excessive vibration of the tail rotor. Following a redesign which incorporated new materials in addition to changes in design methodology, the Dhruv undertook recertification and returned to service shortly after March 2006.<ref name="deccanchronicle.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article123595.ece |title=IAF's Dhruv helicopter crash-lands in Jaisalmer |work=The Hindu |date=27 February 2010 |location=Chennai, India |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102092710/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article123595.ece |archive-date=2 November 2012}}</ref><ref name="outlookmar10">{{cite magazine |url= http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?369391 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20130130232331/http://news.outlookindia.com/item.aspx?369391 |url-status= dead |archive-date= 30 January 2013 |title= Dhruv to resume service soon |magazine= Outlook India |date= 10 March 2006 }}</ref> In April 2007, a report published by the Indian Committee of Defence noted the Dhruv as one of four "focus areas" identified as having high export potential.<ref>Standing Committee of Defence 2007, p. 71.</ref> In January 2011, HAL and partner [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] (IAI) announced that they were jointly developing the Dhruv to operate as an unmanned maritime helicopter, stating customer interest in such a feature.<ref name='flight201101'>{{cite web |first= Arie |last= Egozi |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/01/06/351501/iai-to-help-india-develop-unmanned-dhruv.html |title= IAI to help India develop unmanned Dhruv |work= Flight International |date= 6 January 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110812151528/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/01/06/351501/iai-to-help-india-develop-unmanned-dhruv.html |archive-date= 12 August 2011}}</ref>

The first five production Dhruv Mk III, powered by the more powerful Shakti-1H engine, were delivered to the [[Leh]]-based 205 Aviation Squadron on 7 February 2011 during a ceremony at HAL's Helicopter Division.<ref>{{cite news|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|title=In Siachen, Dhruv proves a world-beater|url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/|work=Business Standard|access-date=21 August 2011|date=7 March 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806070753/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/|archive-date=6 August 2011}}</ref> In July 2011, India's [[Directorate General of Civil Aviation (India)|Directorate General of Civil Aviation]] certified a Dhruv simulator developed by HAL and Canadian developer [[CAE Inc.|CAE Inc]]; the simulator is easily modifiable to simulate different variants of the Dhruv and other helicopters such as the [[Eurocopter Dauphin]].<ref>{{cite web |first= Greg |last= Waldron |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/07/12/357273/india-certifies-first-dhruv-simulator.html |title= India certifies first Dhruv simulator |work= Flight International |date= 12 July 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110811165950/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/07/12/357273/india-certifies-first-dhruv-simulator.html |archive-date= 11 August 2011}}</ref> [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] (DEBEL) has been developing an oxygen life-support system to improve the helicopter's high-altitude performance, and as of August 2010 the IAF has ordered development of this system for the Dhruv.<ref>{{cite magazine |first= Anantha |last= Kristnan M. |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?id=news/awx/2010/08/13/awx_08_13_2010_p0-247830.xml&topicName=India |title= India Develops Oxygen System for High-Altitude Helo Flights |magazine= Aviation Week |date= 13 August 2010 }}{{dead link|date=November 2023}}</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Mauritius Police Force Dhruv Helicopter.jpg|thumb|Dhruv MK.3 of [[Mauritius Police Force]]]]

The HAL Dhruv is of conventional design; about 29 percent of its empty weight (constituting 60 percent of the airframe's surface area) is composite materials.<ref name= "Brasseys99 p298">Taylor 1998, p. 298.</ref> It has been reported that the unique [[carbon fibre]] composite developed by HAL reduced the helicopter's weight by 50 percent.<ref name="datta14">Datta 2008, p. 14.</ref> The high tail boom allows easy access to the rear doors. The twin 1000&nbsp;shp Turbomeca TM333-2B2 turboshafts are mounted above the cabin and drive a four-blade composite main rotor. The main rotor can be manually folded; the blades are mounted between carbon-fibre-reinforced plates, the rotor head is constructed from fibre elastomers.<ref name= "JAWA03 p185"/> In February 2004, US helicopter company [[Lord Corporation]] were awarded a contract to develop an active vibration control system (AVCS), which monitors onboard conditions and cancels out fuselage vibrations.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Lord wins Dhruv active vibration control deal |magazine=[[Flight International]] |issue=3–9 February 2004 |page=27 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2004/2004-04%20-%200029.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105175033/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/2004/2004-04%20-%200029.html |archive-date=5 November 2012}}</ref>

The cockpit section of the fuselage is of [[Kevlar]] and [[carbon-fibre]] construction; it is also fitted with [[crumple zone]]s and [[crashworthiness|crashworthy]] seats. The aircraft is equipped with a SFIM Inc four-axis automatic flight control system. Avionics systems include a HF/UHF communications radio, [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]] recognition, Doppler navigation, and a radio altimeter; a weather radar and the Omega navigation system were options for the naval variant.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempGaurdsOffHome.aspx?MnId=M1YqbUPxvIo=&ParentID=pt1+ZmXUE8Y= |title= Equipment: Dhruv |publisher= Indian Army |access-date=24 August 2011}}</ref> IAI has also developed targeting systems and an [[electronic warfare]] suite for the Dhruv, as well as avionics for day-and-night flight observation.<ref name= 'flight201101'/> HAL's claim that the Dhruv is indigenous has been challenged by 5h3 [[Comptroller and Auditor General of India]], who reported that as of August 2010 the helicopter was: "...against the envisaged indigenisation level of 50% (by 2008), 90% of the value of material used in each ALH is still imported from foreign suppliers".<ref>{{cite news |url= http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-08-06/india/28310212_1_alhs-advanced-light-helicopter-cag |title= Indigenous? Dhruv advanced light helicopters are '90% foreign' |date= 6 August 2010 |access-date= 24 August 2011 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20120707021951/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-08-06/india/28310212_1_alhs-advanced-light-helicopter-cag |archive-date= 7 July 2012 |work= [[The Times of India]] |url-status= dead }}</ref>

[[File:DhruvMKIII.jpg|thumb|HAL Dhruv MK-III of the Indian Coast Guard]]
In September 2010, it was reported that the Dhruv's Integrated Dynamic System (IDS), which combines several key rotor control functions into a single module carrying the engine's power to the rotors,<ref name= "JAWA03 p185">Jackson 2003, p. 185.</ref> was suffering from excessive wear, necessitating frequent replacement; as a consequence the cruising speed had been restricted to 250&nbsp;km/h and high-altitude performance was lessened as well. HAL contracted Italian aerospace firm [[Avio]] for consultancy purposes and they subsequently replicated production of the IDS in Italy in order to isolate the problem with the early testing of the Dhruv subsequently being criticized as "rushed".<ref name= "busstad 092010">{{cite news|last1=Shukla|first1=Ajai|title='Indian' Dhruv copter gets Italian makeover|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/-indian-dhruv-copter-gets-italian-makeover-110091300022_1.html|work=Business Standard|date=13 September 2010|access-date=17 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417105440/http://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/-indian-dhruv-copter-gets-italian-makeover-110091300022_1.html|archive-date=17 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2011, HAL has reported that the issue had been resolved and not present in the Dhruv Mk III; a number of alterations both to the design and production had been made to improve the IDS. A programme of retrofitting the Mk I and Mk II was completed by June 2011.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gooptu|first1=Biswarup|title=Hindustan Aeronautics sees spike in light combat helicopter orders|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/hindustan-aeronautics-sees-spike-in-light-combat-helicopter-orders/articleshow/8676716.cms|work=The Economic Times|date=1 June 2011|access-date=17 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417105640/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/hindustan-aeronautics-sees-spike-in-light-combat-helicopter-orders/articleshow/8676716.cms|archive-date=17 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

The ALH Mk-III with new [[Safran Ardiden|Shakti-1H]] engines has better and improved high altitude performance operating at altitudes over 6&nbsp;km. It comes with seating for 14 fully equipped troops. DGCA has reportedly praised its crashworthy design as a few accidents have not caused any fatalities.<ref name=ai15jae>{{cite web |author=Group Captain (Retd) Hari Nair |title=Lessons learnt from ALH Project |url=http://aeroindiaseminar.in/admin/technical/pdf/_1358752354PaperLessonslearntfromALHProject.pdf |publisher=Aero India |year=2013 |access-date=15 July 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207112036/http://aeroindiaseminar.in/admin/technical/pdf/_1358752354PaperLessonslearntfromALHProject.pdf |archive-date=7 December 2013}} [http://www.livefistdefence.com/2013/02/alh-dhruv-truth-first-hand.html alternate copy] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130713123514/http://www.livefistdefence.com/2013/02/alh-dhruv-truth-first-hand.html |date=13 July 2013 }}.</ref>

In September 2024, HAL assigned TimeTooth Technologies, based in [[Bengaluru]], for indigenisation of Rotor Damp System to be used on ALH Dhruv and [[HAL Prachand]]. The project involves development and qualification of the system for the next two years followed by its production and supply would be for a period of 5 years and beyond. The majority of the project will be funded by the private company itself. The production order value is expected to exceed $5 million within the 5-year period.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dewan |first=Neha |date=2024-09-25 |title=TimeTooth Technologies bags orders from HAL for Light Combat Helicopters |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/sme-sector/timetooth-technologies-bags-orders-from-hal-for-light-combat-helicopters/articleshow/113658911.cms?from=mdr#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17273100173643&csi=0&referrer=https://www.google.com&ampshare=https://m.economictimes.com/small-biz/sme-sector/timetooth-technologies-bags-orders-from-hal-for-light-combat-helicopters/articleshow/113658911.cms |access-date=2024-09-26 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>

==Operational history==

===India===
[[File:First ever successful landing and deck trial of newly inducted 'State-of-the-Art' ALH Mk-III helicopter on ICG Ship undertaken off Chennai on 26 Apr 21.jpg|thumb|Dhruv Mk.III towed inside the hangar of an [[Indian Coast Guard]] patrol vessel]]

Deliveries of the Dhruv commenced in January 2002, nine years after the prototype's first flight, and nearly eighteen years after the program was initiated.<ref name= "JAWA03 p184"/>

The [[Indian Coast Guard]] was the first service to operate the Dhruv; this was followed by the [[Indian Army]], [[Indian Navy]], [[Indian Air Force]] and the [[Border Security Force]]. 75 Dhruvs were delivered to the Indian armed forces by 2007, and as of 2008 it was planned to produce 40 helicopters annually.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 |title=Peru, Ecuador Place Orders for HAL Dhruv ALH Helicopters |publisher=India Defence |date=29 June 2008 |access-date=1 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110231608/http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 |archive-date=10 November 2011}}</ref> The [[Indian Air Force]]'s [[Sarang display team|Sarang]] aerobatic display team performs using 4 Dhruv helicopters.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2008-07-14/news/28441034_1_dhruv-helicopters-sarang-farnborough-air-show |title=Dhruv helicopter display in Farnborough Air Show |work=The Economic Times |date=14 July 2008 |access-date=21 August 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523190143/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2008-07-14/news/28441034_1_dhruv-helicopters-sarang-farnborough-air-show |archive-date=23 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> On 23 December 2007, a further order of 159 helicopters, worth {{INRConvert|14000|c|lk=on|year=2007}}, for the Indian Army and Air Force was approved by the [[Cabinet Committee on Security]] (CCS).<ref>{{cite news |last=Shukla |first=Ajai |date=9 September 2008 |title=Light Combat Helicopter to fly soon: India's New Helicopters: Part II |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=333870 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607083758/http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=333870 |archive-date=7 June 2011 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=Business Standard}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm |title= HAL's Dhruv gets CCS approval |date= 23 December 2007 |location= Chennai, India |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121107053624/http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm |work= [[The Hindu]] |archive-date= 7 November 2012}}</ref> By 2007, Indian Air Force operationalised two ALH squadrons in [[Yelahanka Air Force Station|Yelehanka AFS]] in [[Bengaluru]] and [[Sarsawa Air Force Station|Sarsawa AFS]].<ref name="army ambulances" />[[File:Sarang solo.jpg|thumb|Sarang Helicopter display team of the IAF.|left]]The Dhruv is capable of flying at high altitudes, as it was an Army requirement for the helicopter to be able operate in the [[Siachen Glacier]] and [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Kashmir]] regions. In September 2007, the Dhruv Mk.3 was cleared for high-altitude flying in the Siachen Sector after six months of trials.<ref>[http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070024815 "Dhruv helicopter set to fly in Siachen"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071205233116/http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20070024815 |date=5 December 2007 }}, ''[[NDTV]]'', 3 September 2007</ref><ref>[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Dhruv-clears-trials-to-fly-high-in-Siachen/articleshow/1640897.cms "Dhruv clears trials to fly high in Siachen"] {{Webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120630040309/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-02-20/india/27883994_1_test-trials-dhruv-siachen |date=30 June 2012 }}, ''[[The Times of India]]'', 20 February 2007. Retrieved 8 October 2007.</ref> In October 2007, a Dhruv Mk.3 flew to an altitude of {{convert|27500|ft|m}} [[Above sea level|ASL]] in Siachen.<ref>[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bangalore/Bangalore-ALH-pilots-fly-high/articleshow/2437840.cms "Bangalore ALH pilots fly high"], ''The Times of India'', 8 October 2007.</ref> An Indian Army report in 2009 criticised the Dhruv's performance, stating: "The ALH was not able to fly above 5,000m, though the army's requirements stipulated an ability to fly up to 6,500m"; this has been blamed on the TM333 engine. As a consequence the Army had to continue relying on the older Cheetah/Cheetal helicopters to meet the shortfall.<ref>{{cite web |first= Radhakrishna |last= Rao |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/07/15/329681/indian-report-slams-performance-of-hals-dhruv-helicopter.html |title= Indian report slams performance of HAL's Dhruv helicopter |work= Flight International |date= 15 July 2009 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090718153700/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/07/15/329681/indian-report-slams-performance-of-hals-dhruv-helicopter.html |archive-date= 18 July 2009}}</ref> The more powerful Shakti-1H engine has since been introduced on the Dhruv Mk.3; on one test it carried 600&nbsp;kg load to Sonam Post against the Army's requirement of 200&nbsp;kg.<ref>{{cite news |first= Ajai |last= Shukla |url= http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/ |title= In Siachen, Dhruv proves a world-beater |work= Business Standard |date= 7 March 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110806070753/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/in-siachen-dhruv-provesworld-beater/427533/ |archive-date= 6 August 2011}}</ref> The Indian Army received the first batch of Dhruv Mk.3s during [[Aero India]] 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/dhruv/|title=Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) – Army Technology|access-date=6 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303204738/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/dhruv/|archive-date=3 March 2016}}</ref>

[[File:HAL Dhruv during special operation.jpg|thumb|HAL Dhruv of [[Indian Navy]] during special operation with [[MARCOS]]]]
In October 2008, Defence Minister [[A. K. Antony]] announced that the Indian Navy will deploy the Dhruv in the utility role. The proposed [[anti-submarine warfare]] (ASW) variant had been deemed unsuitable by the Navy, which was reportedly dissatisfied with the folding blade performance and maintenance record.<ref name="flight132007">{{cite web |first= Siva |last= Govindasamy |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/11/13/219256/indian-navy-opens-up-utility-helicopter-requirement.html |title= Indian navy opens up utility helicopter requirement |work= Flight International |date= 13 November 2007 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080629234825/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2007/11/13/219256/indian-navy-opens-up-utility-helicopter-requirement.html |archive-date= 29 June 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://zeenews.india.com/Nation/2008-10-22/478115news.html |title=Navy has not rejected Dhruv: Defence Minister |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=22 October 2008 |access-date=21 August 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927061720/http://zeenews.india.com/Nation/2008-10-22/478115news.html |archive-date=27 September 2012}}</ref> In 2015, HAL modified the foldable rotor's design to allow the Dhruv to be carried on board light frigates; several Indian Navy helicopters shall receive this modification.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defenseworld.net/news/14062/Indian_Naval_Helicopter_ALH_Dhruv_Gets_Foldable_Rotors#.Vfl3w31GR94|title=Indian Naval Helicopter ALH Dhruv Gets Foldable Rotors|work=defenseworld.net|access-date=25 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160906152909/http://www.defenseworld.net/news/14062/Indian_Naval_Helicopter_ALH_Dhruv_Gets_Foldable_Rotors#.Vfl3w31GR94|archive-date=6 September 2016}}</ref> The Navy has considered the Dhruv for maritime surveillance and search and rescue roles,<ref>Sakhuja 2011, p. 106.</ref> and in 2008 a senior Navy official said: "The ALH has a long way to go before the programme matures sufficiently for it to undertake basic naval roles such as search and rescue (SAR) and communication duties."<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/Print/317015.aspx |title= Navy plans to ditch Dhruv helicopters |work= Hindustan Times |date= 12 June 2008 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121022184725/http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/Print/317015.aspx |archive-date= 22 October 2012}}</ref> In 2013, the Indian Navy was reportedly interested in the [[HAL Rudra]], the armed version of the Dhruv.<ref name=weaponised_Dhruv>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/navy-keen-on-weaponised-dhruv/article4401783.ece|title=Navy keen on weaponised Dhruv|author=S. Anandan|work=The Hindu|date=11 February 2013|access-date=6 February 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140520063346/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/navy-keen-on-weaponised-dhruv/article4401783.ece|archive-date=20 May 2014}}</ref> On 12 November 2013, the Indian Navy commissioned their first Dhruv squadron ([[INAS 322]], Guardians); Vice Admiral Sinha stated that "In the Navy, Dhruv helicopters had transformed into an advanced search and rescue (SAR) helicopter, which is also used for missions like heliborne operations, and armed patrol with night vision devices".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/ALH-squadron-adds-to-Navys-fire-power/2013/11/13/article1887731.ece|title=ALH squadron adds to Navy's fire power|work=The New Indian Express|access-date=6 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228100350/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/ALH-squadron-adds-to-Navys-fire-power/2013/11/13/article1887731.ece|archive-date=28 December 2014}}</ref>[[File:Army Aviation India deploying US troops.jpg|thumb|[[United States Army|US Army]] deploying from Dhruv of [[Indian Army]] during a joint military exercise|left]]

Civil Dhruv variants are produced for transport, rescue, policing, offshore operations, air-ambulance, and other roles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hal-india.com/helicopter/products.asp|title=Our Products|work=Helicopter Division Bangalore|publisher=HAL|access-date=31 August 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014004902/http://www.hal-india.com/helicopter/products.asp|archive-date=14 October 2008}}</ref> The [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] are to use the Dhruv for offshore operations. Several Indian state governments are to use Dhruvs for police and transportation duties.<ref name="army ambulances">{{cite news |last1=Mishra |first1=Bibhu Ranjan |last2=Bose |first2=Praveen |date=17 August 2007 |title=HAL likely to get Rs 420 crore order for air ambulances |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-likely-to-get-rs-420-crore-order-for-air-ambulances/294869/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014080016/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-likely-to-get-rs-420-crore-order-for-air-ambulances/294869/ |archive-date=14 October 2012 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> In March 2011, India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation released a proposed airworthiness directive asking all civilian Dhruv operators to temporarily ground their aircraft due to cracks potentially forming in the tail area, and recommended reinforcing affected areas.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:PkNqoKJmEMIJ:www.dgca.nic.in/AD/PAD%252011-003.pdf+Dhruv+IGB&hl=en&gl=uk&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESggGy77S54H6w3bNyHh63KEDMIVALM5N8Pt-BF-ss0EEhpY816kfuqpp5fnN7O4turdhT4caX-RwjZYDa9R_wU4_qS6N7Rr1aNYgi_RGK8JmLf3c13axtWo0szGWk9sYmbB6rJp&sig=AHIEtbQ4TFRpN720p_-52GERxm7lBrof8w |title= Proposed Airworthiness Directive |publisher= Directorate General of Civil Aviation |date= 22 March 2011 |access-date= 28 June 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140308082202/https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache%3APkNqoKJmEMIJ%3Awww.dgca.nic.in%2FAD%2FPAD%252011-003.pdf+Dhruv+IGB&hl=en&gl=uk&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESggGy77S54H6w3bNyHh63KEDMIVALM5N8Pt-BF-ss0EEhpY816kfuqpp5fnN7O4turdhT4caX-RwjZYDa9R_wU4_qS6N7Rr1aNYgi_RGK8JmLf3c13axtWo0szGWk9sYmbB6rJp&sig=AHIEtbQ4TFRpN720p_-52GERxm7lBrof8w |archive-date= 8 March 2014 |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |first= Anantha |last= Kristnan M. |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awx/2011/03/24/awx_03_24_2011_p0-301183.xml&channel=comm |title= India DGCA wants all Dhruv Civil Variants Inspected |magazine= Aviation Week |date= 24 March 2011 }}{{dead link|date=November 2023}}</ref>

Following the [[2011 Sikkim earthquake]], four Dhruvs conducted rescue operations.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/earthquake-in-sikkim-over-5000-troops-9-choppers-dispatched-to-quake-hit-areas/articleshow/10038511.cms |title= Earthquake in Sikkim: Over 5,000 troops, 9 choppers dispatched to quake-hit areas |work= The Economic Times |date= 19 September 2011 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171002125356/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/earthquake-in-sikkim-over-5000-troops-9-choppers-dispatched-to-quake-hit-areas/articleshow/10038511.cms |archive-date= 2 October 2017}}</ref> In October 2011, Jharkhand's regional government appealed for [[Mil Mi-17]] helicopters as operations of their Dhruvs had been disrupted by prolonged maintenance delays and a major crash.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://telegraphindia.com/1111022/jsp/frontpage/story_14653990.jsp |title= State copter out of action, pilots idle – On 9-month upkeep break |publisher= Telegraph India |date= 22 October 2011 |location= Calcutta, India |first= Amit |last= Gupta |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111025103938/http://telegraphindia.com/1111022/jsp/frontpage/story_14653990.jsp |archive-date= 25 October 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111020/jsp/frontpage/story_14645424.jsp |title= SOS to Centre for MI-17s |work= Indian Telegraph|date= 19 October 2011 |location= Calcutta, India |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150924151141/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111020/jsp/frontpage/story_14645424.jsp |archive-date= 24 September 2015}}</ref> In October 2011, The Telegraph reported that a spate of helicopter crashes, including the Dhruv, were alleged to have been caused by low quality maintenance work performed by Pawan Hans Helicopters Ltd.<ref>{{cite news |first= Nishit |last= Dholabhai |url= http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111021/jsp/frontpage/story_14650522.jsp |title= Glare on chopper operator – Pawan Hans-run copters involved in six accidents this year |work= Indian Telegraph|date= 20 October 2011 |location= Calcutta, India |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20111024054132/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111021/jsp/frontpage/story_14650522.jsp |archive-date= 24 October 2011}}</ref>

[[File:HAL Dhruv and Rudra in Rudra formation.jpg|right|thumb|HAL Dhruv and [[HAL Rudra]] in Rudra formation over Rajpath, at the [[Delhi Republic Day parade|Republic Day celebrations]], on 26 January 2020]]In February 2012, the [[Ministry of Home Affairs (India)|Home Ministry]] reported that the Dhruv remained grounded and that other helicopters such as the Mi-17 were being [[wet-lease]]d in its place and that in the long term the Dhruv fleet is to be replaced.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/MHA-plans-to-buy-wet-lease-choppers-as-Dhruv-fleet-grounded/Article1-805127.aspx |title= MHA plans to buy, wet-lease choppers as Dhruv fleet grounded |work= Hindustan Times |date= 1 February 2012 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120201212550/http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/MHA-plans-to-buy-wet-lease-choppers-as-Dhruv-fleet-grounded/Article1-805127.aspx |archive-date= 1 February 2012}}</ref> In February 2012, HAL reported that the Indian Army and Air Force had ordered a further 159 units of Dhruv helicopters.<ref>{{cite news |date=1 February 2012 |title=HAL making 159 Dhruvs for Indian Army |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-making-159-dhruvs-for-indian-army/463354/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120206184522/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-making-159-dhruvs-for-indian-army/463354/ |archive-date=6 February 2012 |work=Business Standard}}</ref>

[[File:HAL rolls out 300th Dhruv ALH.jpg|thumb|left|[[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited|HAL]] rolls out the 300th ''Dhruv'' Advanced Light Helicopter.]]

Six Army Dhruvs along with 18 Air Force Dhruvs were used during rescue operations after the [[2013 North India floods]]. Their compact size, agility, ability to carry up to 16 people to heights of 10,000 feet, and to evacuate stranded people from inaccessible regions was praised.<ref name=tniex17j13>{{cite news|title=Happy hours in HAL over Dhruv's Char Dham Op|url=http://newindianexpress.com/nation/Happy-hours-in-HAL-over-Dhruv%E2%80%99s-Char-Dham-Op/2013/07/17/article1687404.ece|access-date=17 July 2013|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=17 July 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213052225/http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Happy-hours-in-HAL-over-Dhruv%E2%80%99s-Char-Dham-Op/2013/07/17/article1687404.ece|archive-date=13 December 2013}}</ref><ref name=thin20j>{{cite news|title=Dhruv helicopters fly high in Uttarakhand|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dhruv-helicopters-fly-high-in-uttarakhand/article4833766.ece|access-date=5 July 2013|newspaper=The Hindu|date=20 June 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=Vinay|last=Kumar|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130627103735/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/dhruv-helicopters-fly-high-in-uttarakhand/article4833766.ece|archive-date=27 June 2013}}</ref><ref name=ndtv4j>{{cite news|title=How brave, tireless pilots fought to give Uttarakhand a sheltering sky|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/how-brave-tireless-pilots-fought-to-give-uttarakhand-a-sheltering-sky-387980|access-date=5 July 2013|newspaper=NDTV|date=4 July 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130707092708/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/how-brave-tireless-pilots-fought-to-give-uttarakhand-a-sheltering-sky-387980|archive-date=7 July 2013}}</ref> The Dhruv could carry more people from high-altitude helipads than the heavier [[Mi-17]], and land where the lighter [[Bell 407]] could not. Total flight time during [[Operation Rahat]] and [[Operation Surya Hope]] was 630 hours, of which 550 hours were dedicated to [[Search and rescue|SAR]] missions.<ref name=tniex17j13 /><ref name=tt14j13>{{cite news|title=Dhruv delivers but doubters persist Copter comes good in hills|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130715/jsp/nation/story_17118169.jsp#.UeOAgI0wemo|access-date=15 July 2013|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=14 July 2013|location=Calcutta, India|first1=Sujan|last1=Dutta|first2=Nishit|last2=Dholabhai|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130718090524/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130715/jsp/nation/story_17118169.jsp#.UeOAgI0wemo|archive-date=18 July 2013}}</ref>

[[File:NavyDhruv.jpg|thumb|Technicians attaching underslung load on an Indian Navy Dhruv]]In January 2014, the [[Geological Survey of India]] (GSI) inducted a Dhruv equipped with a heliborne geophysical survey system (HGSS). Costing {{INRConvert|63|c|0}}, the HGSS can conduct magnetic, spectrometric and gravity surveys.<ref name=bs23j14>{{cite news|title=Advanced light helicopter 'Garuda Vasudha' dedicated to nation|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/advanced-light-helicopter-garuda-vasudha-dedicated-to-nation-114012200988_1.html|access-date=23 January 2014|newspaper=Business Standard|date=23 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140127020342/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/advanced-light-helicopter-garuda-vasudha-dedicated-to-nation-114012200988_1.html|archive-date=27 January 2014}}</ref><ref name=dh23j14>{{cite news|title=Garuda Vasudha to detect deep-seated mineral deposits in the country|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/382226/garuda-vasudha-detect-deep-seated.html|access-date=23 January 2014|newspaper=Deccan Herald|date=23 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140126131230/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/382226/garuda-vasudha-detect-deep-seated.html|archive-date=26 January 2014}}</ref><ref name=thin23j14>{{cite news|title=HAL copter to add teeth to GSI mineral search|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/hal-copter-to-add-teeth-to-gsi-mineral-search/article5607935.ece|access-date=23 January 2014|newspaper=The Hindu|date=23 January 2014|location=Chennai, India|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130083359/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-karnataka/hal-copter-to-add-teeth-to-gsi-mineral-search/article5607935.ece|archive-date=30 January 2014}}</ref> In May 2018, Israel Aerospace Industries was awarded a contract to upgrade cockpits of 150 Dhruv helicopters, in addition to 50 that had been contracted earlier.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Egozi |first1=Arie |title=India expands Dhruv cockpit upgrade |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-expands-dhruv-cockpit-upgrade-448215/ |work=Flightglobal.com |date=1 May 2018 |access-date=9 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140609/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-expands-dhruv-cockpit-upgrade-448215/ |archive-date=12 June 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In September 2020, HAL announced that it had rolled out the 300th Advance Light Helicopter from its Bengaluru production line. Meanwhile, they were executing an order from the Army of 73 units and from the Navy and Coast Guard of 16 units each. Further, 38 had been delivered while the rest would be delivered by 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-09-20 |title=HAL rolls out 300th Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv |url=https://www.businessworld.in/article/hal-rolls-out-300th-advanced-light-helicopter-dhruv-326261 |access-date=2025-05-02 |website=BW Businessworld |language=en}}</ref>

On February 5, 2021, the Indian Navy tweeted that it has received the Advanced Light Helicopter MK III (MR) alongside the Indian Coast Guard.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2021/february/9658-navy-and-coast-guard-of-india-receive-new-advanced-light-helicopter-mk-iii.html|title=Navy and Coast Guard of India receive new Advanced Light Helicopter Mk III|date=7 February 2021 |access-date=8 February 2021|archive-date=8 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210208095931/http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/defence-news/2021/february/9658-navy-and-coast-guard-of-india-receive-new-advanced-light-helicopter-mk-iii.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

As of September 2024, [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] (ONGC) chose HAL Dhruv for its operations to fly out personnel and equipment from offshore oil rigs. The helicopters will be operated by [[Pawan Hans]]. Dhruv won the competition after a competitive bidding with foreign bidders.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=2024-09-30 |title=HAL's advanced light helicopters to join offshore missions of ONGC |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hals-advanced-light-birds-to-join-offshore-missions-of-ongc/articleshow/113792385.cms?from=mdr#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17276594098971&csi=0&referrer=https://www.google.com&ampshare=https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/hals-advanced-light-birds-to-join-offshore-missions-of-ongc/articleshow/113792385.cms |access-date=2024-09-30 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>

From late April 2025, the helicopters were used for [[counterterrorism]] operations in [[Kashmir]] after the [[2025 Pahalgam attack]].<ref name=":17" />

=== Other users ===
'''Israel''': A civilian Dhruv was leased to the [[Israeli Defense Ministry]] in 2004; IAI has also made use of the Defense Ministry's Dhruv for marketing and public relations purposes.<ref name="datta14" /><ref>{{cite news |last=O'Sullivan |first=Arieh |date=26 May 2005 |title=Defense Ministry leases Indian-made chopper to ferry VIPs |url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/jpost/access/844905841.html?dids=844905841:844905841&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=May+26%2C+2005&author=ARIEH+O%27SULLIVAN&pub=Jerusalem+Post&desc=Defense+Ministry+leases+Indian-made+chopper+to+ferry+VIPs&pqatl=google |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131160726/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/jpost/access/844905841.html?dids=844905841:844905841&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=May+26,+2005&author=ARIEH+O'SULLIVAN&pub=Jerusalem+Post&desc=Defense+Ministry+leases+Indian-made+chopper+to+ferry+VIPs&pqatl=google |archive-date=31 January 2013 |work=The Jerusalem Post}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Sinha |first=Rakesha |date=18 December 2004 |title=Dhruv to spread wings in Israel fleet this January |url=http://www.indianexpress.com/oldStory/61078/ |work=The Indian Express}}</ref>[[File:Maldivian Defence Minister Mohamed Nazim addressing an audience in Kochi.jpg|thumb|right| HAL Dhruv helicopter gifted to Maldives]]'''Maldives''': In April 2010, the Indian Navy gifted a Dhruv to the [[Maldives National Defence Force]] for conducting search and rescue and medical evacuation,<ref>{{cite web |title=HAL Dhru to Maldives |url=http://airforcenews.ru/play/bFHv1t0oPno/MALDIVES_RECEIVES_IT%2527S_DHRUV_HELICOPTER_%252C_GIVEN_BY_INDIAN_GOVT..html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331002038/http://airforcenews.ru/play/bFHv1t0oPno/MALDIVES_RECEIVES_IT%27S_DHRUV_HELICOPTER_%2C_GIVEN_BY_INDIAN_GOVT..html |archive-date=31 March 2012 |access-date=13 August 2011 |publisher=airforcenews.ru}}</ref> while a second Mk.III equipped with a [[weather radar]] was donated in December 2013. The first helicopter is based at [[Addu Atoll]] and the second will be based at [[Hanimaadhoo (Haa Dhaalu Atoll)|Hanimaadhoo]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Anandan |first1=S. |date=15 December 2013 |title=India donates second naval Advanced Light Helicopter to Maldives |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-donates-second-naval-advanced-light-helicopter-to-maldives/article5461654.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131215044518/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/india-donates-second-naval-advanced-light-helicopter-to-maldives/article5461654.ece |archive-date=15 December 2013 |access-date=3 September 2014 |work=thehindu}}</ref>

'''Myanmar''': In 2007, [[Amnesty International]] stated it possessed evidence that India planned to transfer two Dhruvs to [[Burma]], and pointed to the use of European-sourced components as a possible violation of the [[European Union]] (EU) arms embargo against that country.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6900052.stm#map "'Threat' to EU-Burma embargo"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110411061922/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6900052.stm|date=11 April 2011}}, ''[[BBC News]], 16 July 2007. Retrieved 8 October 2007.''</ref><ref>[http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,,,COUNTRYREP,IND,,46a75e132,0.html "Indian helicopters for Myanmar: making a mockery of the EU arms embargo?".] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019172119/http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,,,COUNTRYREP,IND,,46a75e132,0.html|date=19 October 2012}} [[Amnesty International]], 16 July 2007.</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Letter to the President of the EU Council of Ministers |url=http://www.amnesty-eu.org/static/documents/2007/B689India_arms_sales_to_Myanmar.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071006201718/http://www.amnesty-eu.org/static/documents/2007/B689India_arms_sales_to_Myanmar.pdf |archive-date=2007-10-06}}</ref> The Indian government disputed Amnesty's claims and denied any wrongdoing.<ref>''Taipei Times'', p. 5, 17 July 2007. Quote: A government source who asked not to be named, denied any wrongdoing and said India "does not attach much credence to reports by Amnesty International. India does give defense hardware support to Myanmar but the equipment is not offensive ... and not top of the line technology," said the source, asserting that Myanmar was helping in the battle against insurgents in India's northeast. Another Indian official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said that the technology concerned was for communications only and not for offensive operations.</ref>

'''Nepal''': In early 2004, the first foreign order for the Dhruv was placed by [[Nepal]] for two examples.<ref name=":5">India to sell 2 Advanced Light Helicopters to Nepal. ''Islamic Republic News Agency'', 11 February 2004.</ref> In November 2014, India gifted another Dhruv to [[Nepali Army]] as part of a strategic pact.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 November 2014 |title=Modi holds strategic talks with Nepal, gifts Bodhi sapling, helicopter |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/modi-holds-strategic-talks-with-nepal-gifts-bodhi-sapling-helicopter/20141125.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141229115047/http://www.rediff.com/news/report/modi-holds-strategic-talks-with-nepal-gifts-bodhi-sapling-helicopter/20141125.htm |archive-date=29 December 2014 |access-date=6 February 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=OuinetAdmin |date=2014-11-25 |title=Indian PM Hands Over HAL Dhruv to Nepal |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/indian-pm-hands-over-hal-dhruv-to-nepal/ |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Defense aerospace |language=en-US}}</ref>

'''Peru''': In June 2008, the government of [[Peru]] ordered two [[air ambulance]] Dhruvs for use by the Peruvian Health Services.<ref name="peruorder">{{cite news |author=Bose, Praveen and Ravi Menon |date=24 June 2008 |title=HAL secures copter order from Peru |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-secures-copter-order-peru/326924/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014112023/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-secures-copter-order-peru/326924/ |archive-date=14 October 2012 |access-date=26 August 2011 |work=Business Standard}}</ref>

'''Turkey''': In August 2008, a deal was reportedly finalised with [[Turkey]] for three Dhruvs for {{USD}}20 million, with plans to buy as many as 17 of the helicopters for use in the medical assistance role.<ref name="dhruv sale">{{cite news |date=16 July 2008 |title=HAL in negotiations with S American countries |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?tp=on&autono=42237 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091217010712/http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?tp=on&autono=42237 |archive-date=17 December 2009 |access-date=31 August 2010 |work=Business Standard}}</ref><ref name="Indian Express-1">Pubby, Manu. [http://www.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844/ "India bags $20 mn helicopter contract"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110118033201/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844/|date=18 January 2011}}. ''The Indian Express''. (online edition). 10 August 2008. Retrieved 30 August 2008.</ref>

=== Potential users ===
The Dhruv has become the first major Indian weapons system to have secured large foreign sales. In 2004, HAL stated that it hoped to sell 120 Dhruvs over the next eight years,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Unnithan |first1=Sandeep |date=14 February 2004 |title=Getting A Boost |url=http://archives.digitaltoday.in/indiatoday/20050214/defence.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110822045007/http://archives.digitaltoday.in/indiatoday/20050214/defence.html |archive-date=22 August 2011 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=India Today}}</ref> and has been displaying the Dhruv at air shows, including [[Farnborough Airshow|Farnborough]] and [[Paris Air Show|Paris]] in order to market the Dhruv.<ref>{{cite web |last=Singh |first=Jangveer |date=17 June 2005 |title=Dhruv, IJT attract buyers in Paris |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050617/nation.htm#1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611055501/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050617/nation.htm#1 |archive-date=11 June 2011 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]]}}</ref> HAL had entered into a partnership with [[Israel Aerospace Industries]] (IAI) to develop and promote the Dhruv, IAI has also helped develop new avionics and a [[glass cockpit]] for newer variants of the Dhruv.<ref name="Singh 536">Singh 2008, p. 536.</ref>

With a unit price at least 15 percent less than its rivals, the Dhruv has elicited interest in many countries, mostly from Latin America, Africa, West Asia, South East Asia and the Pacific Rim nations. Air forces from around 35 countries have made inquiries, along with requests for demonstrations.<ref name="Huma">{{cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=15 July 2008 |title=HAL on a Dhruv ride in LatAm |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/HAL-on-a-Dhruv-ride-in-LatAm/335468/0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140716052247/http://www.financialexpress.com/news/HAL-on-a-Dhruv-ride-in-LatAm/335468/0 |archive-date=16 July 2014 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=The Financial Express}}</ref> Flight certification for Europe and North America is also being planned in order to tap the large civilian market there.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shukla |first1=Ajai |date=24 March 2011 |title=DRDO looks beyond HAL for Tejas production |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/drdo-looks-beyond-hal-for-tejas-production/429598/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111223110050/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/drdo-looks-beyond-hal-for-tejas-production/429598/ |archive-date=23 December 2011 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=Business Standard}}</ref>

'''Russia''': In July 2006, the then [[Chief of the Air Staff (India)|Chief of Air Staff]], [[Air chief marshal (India)|Air Chief Marshal]] [[Shashindra Pal Tyagi]] commented that India could purchase as many as 80 [[Mil Mi-17|Mi-17]] helicopters if Russia in turn bought Dhruv helicopters in exchange.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gritskova |first=Alexandra |date=11 July 2006 |title=Military Cooperation, Russian MI-17 to Land in India |url=http://dlib.eastview.com/browse/doc/9768842 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330104450/http://dlib.eastview.com/browse/doc/9768842 |archive-date=30 March 2012 |publisher=Kommersant}}</ref>

'''South America''': HAL has reportedly been negotiating with Bolivia for five Dhruvs; and with Venezuela for up to seven.<ref name="dhruv sale" />

'''Southeast Asia''': The Dhruv has also been offered to Malaysia,<ref>{{cite web |date=24 December 2004 |title=HAL hopes to see Dhruv copters on Malaysian shopping list |url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2004/12/24/stories/2004122401440700.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810201827/http://www.thehindubusinessline.in/2004/12/24/stories/2004122401440700.htm |archive-date=10 August 2011 |access-date=31 August 2010 |work=Business Line}}</ref> while it is also being evaluated by the Indonesian Army.<ref>{{cite web |date=11 February 2009 |title=HAL aircraft to fly in Ecuador skies |url=http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14854661 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214182116/http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14854661 |archive-date=14 February 2009 |access-date=31 August 2010 |website=[[Sify]]}}</ref>

'''Philippines''': The HAL Annual Report for 2020-21, indicated that the [[Philippine Coast Guard]] is interested to potentially buy 7 Dhruvs via Indian-based credit.<ref name="HALAR">{{cite web |title=Archived copy |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/Finance/AR%2020-21.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210906163839/https://hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/Finance/AR%2020-21.pdf |archive-date=6 September 2021 |access-date=15 January 2022 |website=hal-india.co.in}}</ref> It is reported that the PCG is looking at the Dhruv ALH.<ref>{{cite web |author=Franco Jose C. Baroña |date=28 August 2023 |title=PH Coast Guard eyes Indian military equipment |url=https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/28/news/national/ph-coast-guard-eyes-indian-military-equipment/1907338 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230829032734/https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/28/news/national/ph-coast-guard-eyes-indian-military-equipment/1907338 |archivedate=2023-08-29 |accessdate=2023-08-29 |publisher=Manila Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ray |first=Kalyan |date=15 February 2023 |title=HAL plans to sell Tejas LCA to Argentina and Egypt, but loses Malaysian contract |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/hal-plans-to-sell-tejas-lca-to-argentina-and-egypt-but-loses-malaysian-contract-1191228.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230911061348/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/hal-plans-to-sell-tejas-lca-to-argentina-and-egypt-but-loses-malaysian-contract-1191228.html |archive-date=11 September 2023 |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Deccan Herald}}</ref> There has been to instances when the capabilities of Dhruv were demonstrated to Philippines. First was when PCG chief visited [[Indian Coast Guard]] facility at [[Goa]] in 2023 and took part in a "Customer Demonstration Flight" and second was when a three ship flotilla (including {{INS|Delhi}}, {{INS|Shakti}} and [[INS Kiltan (P30)|INS ''Kiltan'']] visited [[Manila]], Philippines in May 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Ritu |date=2024-05-22 |title=Defense Deal Brewing - Philippines Shows Interest In India's Advanced Light Helicopter As Navy Warships Docks At Manila |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/defense-deal-brewing-philippines-shows-interest/ |access-date=2024-05-22 |website=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News |language=en-US}}</ref>

'''Egypt''': Egypt stated in 2022 that it was interested in acquiring the ALH.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2022-10-22 |title=HAL gets enquiries for helicopters from various countries: CMD |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-gets-enquiries-for-helicopters-from-various-countries-cmd/article66045232.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230216043556/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-gets-enquiries-for-helicopters-from-various-countries-cmd/article66045232.ece |archive-date=16 February 2023 |access-date=2023-08-29 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

'''Argentina''': The [[Ministry of Defense (Argentina)|Argentinian Ministry of Defense]] signed a [[Letter of intent|Letter of Intent]] (LOI) to procure the Dhruv for the [[Armed Forces of the Argentine Republic]] on July 20, 2023.<ref>{{cite press release |title=India: Taiana visitó las instalaciones de la empresa HAL y firmó una carta de intención para avanzar en la incorporación de helicópteros para las FFAA |date=2023-07-20 |url=https://www.argentina.gob.ar/noticias/india-taiana-visito-las-instalaciones-de-la-empresa-hal-y-firmo-una-carta-de-intencion-para |language=Spanish |access-date=20 July 2023 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720162126/https://www.argentina.gob.ar/noticias/india-taiana-visito-las-instalaciones-de-la-empresa-hal-y-firmo-una-carta-de-intencion-para |archive-date=20 July 2023 |work=[[Ministry of Defense (Argentina)|Ministry of Defense]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=20 July 2023 |title=HAL and Argentine Defence Ministry sign LoI for light and medium utility helicopters |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/hal-and-argentine-defence-ministry-sign-loi-for-light-and-medium-utility-helicopters/article67101592.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230824005700/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-and-argentine-defence-ministry-sign-loi-for-light-and-medium-utility-helicopters/article67101592.ece |archive-date=24 August 2023 |access-date=24 August 2023 |work=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref>

=== Failed bids ===
'''Chile''': The Dhruv participated in a Chilean tender for eight to ten twin-engined helicopters, conducting a series of evaluation flights to demonstrate the capabilities of its avionics and flight performance; however, it lost out to the [[Bell 412]],<ref>{{cite news |date=12 December 2007 |title=Chile inks contract with Bell for 412 |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2007/12/10/daily19.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103030455/http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2007/12/10/daily19.html |archive-date=3 November 2012 |newspaper=Dallas Business Journal}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=25 July 2004 |title=Indian Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters Demonstrated to Chilean Air Force, Army, and Naval Aviation units |url=http://www.iai.co.il/23048-32414-en/MediaRoom_NewsArchives_2004.aspx?PageNum=2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120323163032/http://www.iai.co.il/23048-32414-en/MediaRoom_NewsArchives_2004.aspx?PageNum=2 |archive-date=23 March 2012 |publisher=Israel Aerospace Industries}}</ref> although there were media accusations of unfair pressure being exercised by the US Government to favour Bell.<ref name="Huma" /><ref>{{cite news |date=4 May 2008 |title=US pressure robs chopper order from Hindustan Aeronautics |url=http://article.wn.com/view/2008/05/04/US_pressure_robs_chopper_order_from_Hindustan_Aeronautics/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330053119/http://article.wn.com/view/2008/05/04/US_pressure_robs_chopper_order_from_Hindustan_Aeronautics/ |archive-date=30 March 2012 |access-date=31 August 2010 |work=The India Times}}</ref>

=== Former user ===

==== Ecuador ====
[[File:Dhruv Ecuador.jpg|thumb|right|Dhruv helicopters of the [[Ecuadorian Air Force]] ]]HAL has secured an order from the [[Ecuadorian Air Force]] (EAF) for seven Dhruvs, amidst strong competition from [[Elbit]], [[Eurocopter]] and [[Kazan Helicopters|Kazan]]. HAL's offer of {{USD}}50.7 million was about 32 percent lower than the second lowest bid from [[Elbit Systems|Elbit]].<ref name=":8">{{cite web |title=HAL Bags Order from Ecuador |url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=39794 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605225919/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=39794 |archive-date=5 June 2011 |access-date=31 August 2010 |publisher=Pib.nic.in}}</ref> Five helicopters were delivered in February 2009, during Aero India 2009.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shukla |first1=Ajai |date=9 February 2009 |title=HAL to hand over first export Dhruvs |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-to-hand-over-first-export-dhruvs/00/24/348441/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100316112133/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-to-hand-over-first-export-dhruvs/00/24/348441 |archive-date=16 March 2010 |access-date=31 August 2010 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> Both the [[Ecuadorian Army]] and [[Ecuadorian Navy]] have since expressed interest in the Dhruvs.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ecuador Place Orders for HAL Dhruv ALH Helicopters |url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110231608/http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3887 |archive-date=10 November 2011 |access-date=13 August 2011 |publisher=Indian Defence}}</ref> The Dhruv has been involved in search and rescue, transport, and [[MEDEVAC]] missions in the north of the country.<ref>{{cite web |date=29 July 2011 |title=La FAE defiende a los helicópteros Dhruv |url=http://www.elcomercio.com/seguridad/FAE-defiende-helicopteros-Dhruv_0_526147479.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111015020734/http://elcomercio.com/seguridad/FAE-defiende-helicopteros-Dhruv_0_526147479.html |archive-date=15 October 2011 |publisher=Elcomercio.com}}</ref>

Following the crash of one of the Dhruvs in October 2009, Ecuador reportedly considered returning their six helicopters to HAL amid claims of being unfit for service;<ref>{{cite web |date=30 October 2009 |title=Ecuador to return 6 Indian Dhruv choppers |url=http://news.oneindia.in/2009/10/30/ecuador-to-return-6-indian-dhruv-choppers.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013193744/http://news.oneindia.in/2009/10/30/ecuador-to-return-6-indian-dhruv-choppers.html |archive-date=13 October 2012 |publisher=OneIndia News}}</ref> EAF commander Genl. Rodrigo Bohorquez stated "If it is a major problem that can't be easily remedied, we would have to return [the Dhruv]." HAL assisted the crash investigation, which found the cause to be pilot error.<ref>{{cite news |date=15 December 2009 |title=Probe finds pilot error caused Dhruv crash in Ecuador |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article65330.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102232308/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article65330.ece |archive-date=2 November 2012 |work=The Hindu |location=Chennai, India}}</ref>

In February 2011, the EAF were reported to be satisfied with the Dhruv's performance and was considering further orders.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shukla |first1=Ajai |date=4 February 2011 |title=HAL plans treat for Aero India |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-plans-treat-for-aero-india/424032/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205081443/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/hal-plans-treat-for-aero-india/424032/ |archive-date=5 February 2011 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> By October 2015, a total of four Ecuadorian Dhruvs had crashed reportedly due to mechanical equipment and Ecuador grounded the type.<ref>[http://www.deccanherald.com/content/506736/ecuador-grounds-fleet-dhruv-choppers.html "Ecuador grounds fleet of Dhruv choppers after mishaps, cancels contract with HAL."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017112350/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/506736/ecuador-grounds-fleet-dhruv-choppers.html|date=17 October 2015}} ''Deccan Herald'', 16 October 2015.</ref> In October 2015 Ecuador cancelled the contract and withdrew the surviving helicopters from service, non-delivery of parts and high accident rate were cited.<ref>{{cite news |date=16 October 2015 |title=Ecuador cuts Dhruv helicopter contract with HAL after 4 crashes |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cuts-Dhruv-helicopter-contract-with-HAL-after-4-crashes/articleshow/49403144.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206081615/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cuts-Dhruv-helicopter-contract-with-HAL-after-4-crashes/articleshow/49403144.cms |archive-date=6 February 2016 |newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref> In 2016, the Ecuadorian [[Ministry of National Defense (Ecuador)|Minister of Defense]] [[Ricardo Patiño]] announced that the remainder of the HAL Dhruv helicopters of the Ecuadorian Air Force, which are stored at the [[Taura Air Base|Guayaquil Air Base]] are for sale and that the Air Force is looking for potential buyers.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Rivas |first1=Santiago |date=21 October 2016 |title=Ecuadorian Air Force selling its remaining Dhruv helicopters |url=http://www.janes.com/article/64845/ |access-date=22 October 2016 |website=IHS Jane's 360 |language=en |location=Buenos Aires, Argentina}}</ref> The Government of Ecuador had unilaterally terminated the contract with HAL citing safety concerns of the helicopters.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2016-03-08 |title=16 accidents involving Dhruv helicopters since 2002 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/16-accidents-involving-dhruv-helicopters-since-2002-parliament-told/article8327755.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200613140939/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/16-accidents-involving-dhruv-helicopters-since-2002-parliament-told/article8327755.ece |archive-date=13 June 2020 |access-date=2021-08-04 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> A HAL spokesman said that while maintenance was supposed to be done by the EAF due to the warranty period being expired, the company was willing to assist them to make sure that the Dhruvs were operational.<ref name="Wire">{{Cite web |title=Recurring Accidents and Reliability Concerns: A Report Card on Army's Advanced Light Helicopters |url=https://thewire.in/security/recurring-accidents-and-reliability-concerns-a-report-card-on-armys-advanced-light-helicopters |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230829033356/https://thewire.in/security/recurring-accidents-and-reliability-concerns-a-report-card-on-armys-advanced-light-helicopters |archive-date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> Quito declined further assistance.<ref name="Wire" />

== Orders ==

* Nepal placed an order for two Dhruvs in 2004.<ref name=":5" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=HAL keen to export Dhruv to Chile |url=https://www.rediff.com/money/2004/dec/18hal1.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240930134834/https://www.rediff.com/money/2004/dec/18hal1.htm |archive-date=2024-09-30 |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=www.rediff.com}}</ref>
* Three major orders for civilian Dhruv helicopters were placed in 2005. The orders was placed by [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] (ONGC), [[Government of Jharkhand|Jharkhand State Government]] for 2 units and [[Government of Karnataka|Karnataka State Government]] for one on lease. The combined order value exceeded {{INRConvert|100|c|lk=on|year=2005}}.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=HAL sells 3 choppers to ONGC for Rs 100 cr |url=https://www.rediff.com/money/2005/jun/24hal1.htm |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Rediff |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=OuinetAdmin |date=2005-06-27 |title=HAL Wins 3 Orders for Dhruv Helicopter (Jun 28) |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/hal-wins-3-orders-for-dhruv-helicopter-jun-28/ |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Defense aerospace |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="auto" />
* India was expected to order up to 12 Dhruvs outfitted with an onboard emergency medical suite, to be used by the Armed Forces Medical Services for [[MEDEVAC]] purposes as of August 2007.<ref name="army ambulances" /> The [[National Disaster Management Authority (India)|National Disaster Management Authority]] (NDMA) placed an order for 12 Dhruv helicopters equipped with a full medical suite, including ventilators and two stretchers in 2007.<ref>{{cite web |date=20 January 2007 |title=NDMA to get 12 ALHs |url=http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/Jan202007/state149362007120.asp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004205958/http://archive.deccanherald.com/Deccanherald/Jan202007/state149362007120.asp |archive-date=4 October 2012 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=Deccan Herald}}</ref>
* In June 2008, HAL has secured an order from the [[Ecuadorian Air Force]] (EAF) for seven Dhruvs, worth {{USD}}50.7 million.<ref name=":8" />
* In 2008, it was announced that India's [[Ministry of Home Affairs (India)|Home Ministry]] had ordered six Dhruvs.<ref name="mail.hal-india.com">{{cite web |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=10 August 2008 |title=India bags $20 mn helicopter contract |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019130659/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844 |archive-date=19 October 2016 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=The Indian Express}}</ref>
* In August 2008, a deal was reportedly finalised with [[Turkey]] for three Dhruvs for {{USD}}20 million for use in the medical assistance role.<ref name="dhruv sale" /><ref name="Indian Express-1" />
* In March 2017, HAL received an order for 32 Dhruv for [[Indian Navy]] (16) and [[Indian Coast Guard]] (16). The order was worth {{INRConvert|80|b|lk=on|year=2017}}. The order for the same was cleared by the [[Cabinet Committee on Security]] earlier.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Indian navy and coast guard order 32 Dhruv helicopters |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/indian-navy-and-coast-guard-order-32-dhruv-helicopters/123548.article |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240930133221/https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/indian-navy-and-coast-guard-order-32-dhruv-helicopters/123548.article |archive-date=2024-09-30 |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref>
* On 4 September 2017, an order of 41 helicopters for [[Indian Army]] (40) and [[Indian Navy]] (1). The order is to be executed within 60 months The order was be worth {{INRConvert|6100|c|lk=on|year=2017}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Media Releases |url=http://www.hal-india.com/HAL%20Gets%20Orders%20for%2041%20Advanced%20Light%20Helicopters/ND__206 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170904195628/http://www.hal-india.com/HAL%20Gets%20Orders%20for%2041%20Advanced%20Light%20Helicopters/ND__206 |archive-date=4 September 2017 |access-date=4 September 2017 |website=www.hal-india.com}}</ref>
* Apart from getting 16 Dhruv Mk III, Indian Coast Guard issued [[Letter of intent|Letter of Intent]] (LoI) for nine additional units in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-11-15 |title=HAL delivers 16th ALH Mk-III helicopters to Indian Coast Guard, receives letter of intent for 9 more |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/hal-16-alh-helicopter-indian-coast-guard-nine-more-8270185/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221116201655/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/hal-16-alh-helicopter-indian-coast-guard-nine-more-8270185/ |archive-date=16 November 2022 |access-date=2022-11-16 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> In March 2024, [[Cabinet Committee on Security]] (CCS) approved the procurement of 34 Dhruv Mk III models. The order of 34 helicopters was signed between MoD and HAL on 14 Match 2024. The Indian Army is to get 25 units while Coast Guard will get 9 units. The order was worth {{INRConvert|8073|c|lk=off|year=2024}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=2024-03-14 |title=MoD signs contracts worth Rs 8073 Cr with HAL for 34 ALH Dhruv Mk III Helicopters |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-mod-signs-contracts-worth-rs-8073-cr-with-hal-for-34-alh-dhruv-mk-iii-helicopters-3425426/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>
* As of September 2024, [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]] (ONGC) chose HAL Dhruv operated by [[Pawan Hans]] for its operations to fly out personnel and equipment from offshore oil rigs. An initial order of 10 Dhruvs is expected with the order quantity expected to cross 28 units later.<ref name=":4" /> On 17 December 2024, Pawan Hans Limited received an order worth {{INRConvert|2141|c|lk=on|year=2024}} to deploy four Dhruv-NG variant helicopters for offshore operations for 10 years.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |last=Vaid |first=Rohit |date=2024-12-17 |title=Make-in-India: Pawan Hans to deploy Dhruv NG choppers for ONGC in ₹2,000-cr deal |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/make-in-india-pawan-hans-to-deploy-dhruv-ng-under-2000-crore-contract/article68996123.ece |access-date=2024-12-20 |website=BusinessLine |language=en}}</ref>
* In November 2024, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of 6 ALH (MR) variant helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard.<ref name=":62">{{Cite news |date=2024-12-03 |title=DAC approves 05 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs. 21,772 Crores to augment defence preparedness |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2080155 |access-date=2024-12-03 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-03 |title=Centre clears 5 acquisition deals to improve India's defence preparedness |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/centre-clears-5-acquisition-deals-for-indian-army-indian-air-force-indian-navy-coast-guard-to-improve-indias-defence-preparedness-2644308-2024-12-03 |access-date=2024-12-04 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>

==Variants==

===Military variants===
[[File:Dhruv-IA-1133-060.JPG|alt=|thumb|A HAL Dhruv military variant with cargo bay open]]
;Mk.1: The initial configuration with a conventional cockpit with mechanical gauges and [[Turbomeca TM 333|Turbomeca TM 333-2B2]] turboshaft engines. A total of 56 have been delivered to the Indian military.<ref name ='hirsch 50'>Hirschberg 2011, p. 50.</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=HAL – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited |url=https://hal-india.co.in/product/dhruv |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=hal-india.co.in}}</ref> Manufacturing began in 2001.<ref name="Article">{{cite web|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130614205032/http://idp.justthe80.com/common-projects/dhruv---advanced-light-helicopter-alh|url=http://idp.justthe80.com/common-projects/dhruv---advanced-light-helicopter-alh|title=Dhruv – Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH)|publisher=IDP Sentinel|access-date=15 June 2013|archive-date=14 June 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>
;Mk.2: Similar to the Mk.1, except has the newer HAL-[[Israel Aerospace Industries|IAI]] [[glass cockpit]].<ref name=":3" /> A total of 20 have been delivered to the Indian military.<ref name ='hirsch 50'/> Manufacturing began in 2007.<ref name="Article"/>
;Mk.3:An improved version equipped with [[Safran Ardiden|Shakti-1H]] engines, new [[electronic warfare]] (EW) suite and warning systems, automatic chaff and flare dispensers, Integrated Architecture Display System (IADS) with Digital Moving Map, [[Electro-optic modulator|Electro Optical pod]], [[infrared]] suppressor, [[Health and usage monitoring systems|health & usage monitoring system]], Solid State Digital Video Recorder (SSDVR), Engine Particle Separator and improved vibration control system.<ref name=":3" /><ref name= "mk.3">{{cite web |url=http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awx/2011/03/07/awx_03_07_2011_p0-294228.xml&channel=defense |title=HAL To Deliver More Dhruv Mk. 3 Helicopters |publisher=Aviation week |date=7 March 2011 |access-date=6 September 2011 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The first batch were inducted into service in 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.defencenow.com/news/509/dhruv-mkiii-inducted-into-indian-air-force.html |title= Dhruv MkIII Inducted into Indian Air Force |publisher= DefenceNow |date= 9 February 2012 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120212115853/http://www.defencenow.com/news/509/dhruv-mkiii-inducted-into-indian-air-force.html |archive-date= 12 February 2012}}</ref>
;Mk.3 Coast Guard
[[File:Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, Indian Coast Guard.jpg|thumb|HAL Dhruv operated by Indian Coast Guard]]
Same in performance to the Mk.3 however, has additional equipment such as a cabin mountain MG, High Intensity Search Light and a loud hailer. It is armed with a 12.7&nbsp;mm HMG.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 June 2022 |title='Aatmanirbhar defence' expands as Coast Guard commissions made-in-India ALH Dhruv Mark III helicopters |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/coast-guard-commissions-made-in-india-dhruv-mark-iii-chopper-squadron-in-gujarat-101656393386473.html |website=Hindustan Times |access-date=30 July 2023 |archive-date=30 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230730140916/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/coast-guard-commissions-made-in-india-dhruv-mark-iii-chopper-squadron-in-gujarat-101656393386473.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
;Mk. 3 Navy/Mk.3 MR (Marine Reconnaissance)
Has additional equipment such as a modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment to carry out maritime reconnaissance as  well as long-range search and rescue missions, an HMG and the capability to mount at least 2 ASW torpedoes.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 June 2021 |title=Indian Navy inducts three ALH MK III helicopters |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/news/indian-navy-inducts-three-alh-mk-iii-helicopters/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328122442/https://www.naval-technology.com/news/indian-navy-inducts-three-alh-mk-iii-helicopters/ |archive-date=28 March 2023}}</ref>
;Mk.4: Also known as ALH-WSI (Weapons System Integrated) or [[HAL Rudra]]<ref>{{cite news|title=YEAR-END REVIEW – 2010 DRDO|url=http://www.pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=68740|access-date=31 July 2012|newspaper=Press Information Bureau|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121215063516/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=68740|archive-date=15 December 2012}}</ref><ref>Hirschberg 2011, p. 51.</ref>

==== Utility Helicopter-Marine ====
HAL is currently developing an advanced variant of the ALH Dhruv to address the specific needs of the Indian Navy. The helicopter is to be purpose-built for ship-borne uses.

The UH-M programme has its origin from the Navy's Naval Utility Helicopter (NUH) acquisition programme. The Navy issued a requirement of 111 units of utility helicopters. The programme was cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) – the main acquisition panel under the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] (MoD) headed by the then [[Minister of Defence (India)|Minister of Defence]] [[Nirmala Sitharaman]] on 25 August 2018 though the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) document. The cost of the programme was set at {{INRConvert|21000|c|lk=on|year=2018}}. The requirement would be fulfilled through the [[Strategic partnership|Strategic Partnership]] (SP) model including an Indian and a foreign [[Original equipment manufacturer|Original Equipment Manufacturer]] (OEM) under the [[Make in India]] initiative.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-08-25 |title=DAC Approves Procurement for Services amounting to Nearly Rs. 46,000 Crores |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=183066 |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref>

According to a report in April 2022, the [[Expression of Interest]] (EoI) to OEMs and Strategic Partners were issued in February 2019. However, the deal was included in the third "positive indigenisation list".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-07 |title=Landmark policy decision to indigenise 101 more weapons and platforms to speed up 'Aatmanirbharta' in Defence |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1814446 |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref> Meanwhile, HAL had carried out a joint study of ALH Dhruv to increase the [[MTOW]] to 5.7 tonnes, reduce the [[empty weight]] and increase the overall [[Payload|payload capacity]] to 600&nbsp;kg. The modifications also included "reduced stowage dimensions to meet requirement with foldable two segment blades and modified upper control system and [[Aircraft Ship Integrated Secure and Traverse]] (ASIST) traversing interface for ship deck." The programme is to replace the Navy's ageing [[HAL Chetak|Chetak]] fleet.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2022-04-14 |title=Navy to get variants of indigenous helicopters |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-to-acquire-modified-variants-of-indigenous-helicopters-for-its-ships/article65320960.ece/ |access-date=2024-10-21 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The Indian Navy is to place an order of at least 50 helicopters in the first phase.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last1=Sharma |first1=Sheenu |date=2022-04-15 |title=Indian Navy working with HAL to develop 50 UH (Marine) choppers for warship requirements |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/indian-navy-working-with-hindustan-aeronautics-limited-to-develop-50-uh-marine-choppers-for-warship-requirements-latest-news-updates-2022-04-15-769927 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230824010923/https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/indian-navy-working-with-hindustan-aeronautics-limited-to-develop-50-uh-marine-choppers-for-warship-requirements-latest-news-updates-2022-04-15-769927 |archive-date=2023-08-24 |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=India TV News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=ANI |date=2022-04-15 |title=Navy working with HAL to develop 50 UH (Marine) choppers for warship requirements |url=https://theprint.in/india/navy-working-with-hal-to-develop-50-uh-marine-choppers-for-warship-requirements/917349/ |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref>

The maritime wheeled version of Dhruv having segmented Main Rotor Blades (MRBs) and Main Rotor Head (MRH) in pre-cone configuration completed its first flight on 30 June 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maiden Flight of ALH–Dhruv (Wheeled Version) |url=https://www.spsnavalforces.com/experts-speak/?id=521&h=Maiden-Flight-of-ALH-Dhruv-Wheeled-Version#:~:text=On%20June%2030,%202022,%20the,undertook%20a%20successful%20maiden%20flight. |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=www.spsnavalforces.com}}</ref> By March 2023, tail boom folding has been demonstrated. Reportedly, the UH-M will also showcase [[anti-ship missile]] and [[torpedo]] firing capability.<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=1636649681089331200 |user=Defencematrix1 |title=ALH Dhruv as NUH for Navy should be different from ALH Dhruv MR, it should have an easy 4-blade folding mechanism, which is already under works (Photo Below), Tail boom folding has been demonstrated too, rest two things are AshM and Torpedo firing capabilities. |date=2023-03-17 |access-date=2024-10-21}}</ref>

On 16 March 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the Utility Helicopter-Maritime programme for the Indian Navy.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-16 |title=Defence Acquisition Council approves proposals worth Rs 70,500 crore for the Armed Forces & Indian Coast Guard under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category |url=https://pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1907642 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813132658/https://pib.gov.in/pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1907642 |archive-date=13 August 2023 |access-date=2023-03-16 |website=pib.gov.in}}</ref>

On 20 October 2024, a report from [[The Economic Times]] revealed that the prototype of Utility Helicopters-Marine (UH-M) helicopter is under construction while the first flight is expected by May 2025. Its multirole capabilities will include transportation of personnel, cargo delivery and [[CASEVAC]]. Simultaneously, the new technologies developed for the new helicopter is also being tested on a [[testbed]]. The design is mostly based on the earlier Dhruv and includes extensive modifications to fit inside a ship-based [[hangar]]. The modifications includes foldable tail boom as well as foldable [[rotor blades]] and a nose-mounted surveillance radar. The Navy needs 111 of these helicopters.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=2024-10-20 |title=Indigenous marine utility copter set to fly by May next year |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indigenous-marine-utility-copter-set-to-fly-by-may-next-year/articleshow/114403511.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-10-21 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> 

As of 11 May 2025, the design of the helicopter is almost completed with first flight and deliveries expected by early 2026 and 2027, respectively.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Dalip |date=2025-05-10 |title=India reaches out to US, France for twin-engine naval helicopters |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/india-reaches-out-to-us-france-for-twin-engine-naval-helicopters/article69561544.ece |access-date=2025-05-11 |website=BusinessLine |language=en}}</ref>

===Civil variants===
;[[File:VT-XLH HAL Dhruv (8414607154).jpg|thumb|Dhruv civil variant]]Dhruv (C)
:Also known as ALH-Civil, a Turbomeca TM333-2B2-powered 12-seat helicopter with [[retractable landing gear]], type certificate issued on 31 October 2003.<ref name="tc">[http://dgca.nic.in/TC/ALH.pdf DGCA Type Certificate Data Sheet No, 5-8/96-RD] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304000755/http://dgca.nic.in/TC/ALH.pdf |date=4 March 2016 }}</ref>
;Dhruv (CFW)
:A Turbomeca TM333-2B2-powered 12-seat helicopter fitted with wheels, type certificate issued on 20 April 2005.<ref name="tc" />
;Dhruv (CS)
:A Turbomeca TM333-2B2-powered 12-seat helicopter fitted with skids, type certificate issued on 30 July 2004.<ref name="tc" />
;Dhruv NG
:Civilian variant of Dhruv Mk-3 equipped with [[Safran Ardiden|Shakti-1H]] engines and civil-certified glass cockpit.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |last=Vaid |first=Rohit |date=2024-12-17 |title=Make-in-India: Pawan Hans to deploy Dhruv NG choppers for ONGC in ₹2,000-cr deal |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/make-in-india-pawan-hans-to-deploy-dhruv-ng-under-2000-crore-contract/article68996123.ece |access-date=2024-12-20 |website=BusinessLine |language=en}}</ref>
;Garuda Vasudha: A Dhruv outfitted with a heliborne geophysical survey system (HGSS) from Pico Envirotec Inc, [[Canada]].<ref name="bs23j14" /><ref name=":1" />

== Accidents and incidents ==
As reported by the [[Indian Government]] to [[Parliament of India|Parliament]] on 8 March 2016, there has been 16 accidents involving HAL Dhruv. “Out of 16 accidents, 12 occurred due to human error and environmental factors and the remaining four occurred due to technical reasons,” Minister of State for Defence [[Rao Inderjit Singh]] informed the [[Rajya Sabha]]. The crash involved 2 civilian, 9 Indian military and 5 foreign operated helicopters. As for the 4 Ecuadorian Dhruv crahes, 2 were due to human errors, 1 due to mechanical error.<ref name="auto1" />

Further, 4 Dhruv and 2 Rudra helicopters were lost between March 2017 and December 2021.<ref name=":13">{{Cite news |date=2021-12-17 |title=15 military chopper accidents since March 2017: Official data |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/15-military-chopper-accidents-since-march-2017-official-data/articleshow/88346257.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-01-07 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>

As of January 2025, 20 to 23 ALHs were lost in 23 years of service leading to a death of 17 pilots excluding passengers. A total of around 410 units have been produced.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=Explainer: In 23 years since induction, Dhruv fleet suffers 23 crashes, several groundings |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/explainer-in-23-years-since-induction-dhruv-fleet-suffers-23-crashes-several-groundings/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=The Tribune |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite news |last=Chandra |first=Jagriti |date=2025-01-11 |title=HAL asks civil operators to ground Dhruv choppers after January 5 crash |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-asks-civil-operators-to-ground-dhruv-choppers-after-january-5-crash/article69089358.ece |access-date=2025-01-12 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

=== 2005-2022 ===

* 2005: First crash involving an ALH owned by HAL. The helicopter was on its way from [[Bangalore]] to [[Ranchi]] when it crash-landed in a field near [[Karimnagar]] in [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref name=":12" />
* February 2007: First fatal crash involving an IAF Dhruv while flying with [[Sarang display team]] at [[Yelahanka Air Force Station|Yelehanka]]. Two officers of [[Wing commander|Wing Commander]] and [[Squadron leader|Squadron Leader]] rank lost their lives.<ref name=":12" />
* 25 July 2014: an IAF Dhruv MkIII of [[No. 111 Helicopter Unit, IAF|111 HU]] carrying 2 pilots (wing commander T.B.N. Singh and a squadron leader) and 5 airmen (a junior warrant officer, a sergeant, a leading aircraftman and two corporals) crashed in [[Sitapur district]] at around 5 pm, killing all onboard. The chopper was enroute from [[Bareilly]] to [[Allahabad]] and a technical glitch was reported to the [[Lucknow]] ATC before the tower lost contact. Another IAF helicopter rushed to the spot.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2014-07-25 |title=7 killed as IAF chopper crashes in U.P. |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/IAF%E2%80%99s-Dhruv-helicopter-crashes-in-Uttar-Pradeshs-Sitapur/article60632578.ece |access-date=2025-01-07 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The particular chopper had been serviced days before and had flown over 500 hours. IAF had temporarily grounded its 40-strong ALH fleet which restarted operations by August-end. The army's fleet was also grounded for inspection.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-08-27 |title=IAF resumes flying of Dhruv copters after Sitapur crash |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/north/story/dhruv-helicopters-iaf-sitapur-crash-hal-dhruv-mk-iii-205814-2014-08-26 |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
* October 2019: An Army Dhruv crash landed near [[Poonch District, India|Poonch]] in [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]. A crew of eight including the then General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, [[Northern Command (India)|Northern Command]], [[Lieutenant general (India)|Lieutenant general]] [[Ranbir Singh (general)|Ranbir Singh]] survived.<ref name=":12" />
* 25 January 2021: an Army Dhruv helicopter crashed due to a technical snag in [[Kathua district]]’s [[Lakhanpur, Jammu|Lakhanpur]] in Jammu and Kashmir, killing one of the pilots.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-25 |title=1 pilot killed, another seriously injured as Army helicopter crash lands in J-K |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-army-helicopter-crash-lands-in-j-k-both-pilots-injured-101611585328788.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210125163448/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-army-helicopter-crash-lands-in-j-k-both-pilots-injured-101611585328788.html |archive-date=2021-01-25 |access-date=2021-08-04 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bhat |first=Sunil |date=2021-01-25 |title=Indian Army helicopter crashes in J&K's Kathua district, 1 pilot dead, another critical |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-army-helicopter-hal-dhruv-crash-jammu-kashmir-kathua-updates-1762650-2021-01-25 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230911060614/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indian-army-helicopter-hal-dhruv-crash-jammu-kashmir-kathua-updates-1762650-2021-01-25 |archive-date=2023-09-11 |access-date=2021-08-04 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
*7 March 2021: an Army Dhruv made an emergency landing in [[Kheda district]] in [[Gujarat]]. Two 3-star officers including [[Army Training Command]] head [[Lieutenant general (India)|Lt Gen.]] [[Raj Shukla]] and Indian Air Force [[South Western Air Command]] Chief [[Air marshal (India)|Air Marshal]] [[Surendra Kumar Ghotia|S.K. Ghotia]] and 4 other officers were onboard.  Everyone survived as a precautionary landing was conducted 30km away from [[Ahmedabad]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2021-03-07 |title=Army denies ‘protocol violation’ as helicopter with two 3-star officers makes emergency landing |url=https://theprint.in/defence/army-denies-protocol-violation-as-helicopter-with-two-3-star-officers-makes-emergency-landing/617415/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref>
*3 August 2021: an Army Rudra helicopter crashed into the water near [[Ranjit Sagar Dam]] Lake. The helicopter belonged to the [[Pathankot Airport|Pathankot]]-based 254 ALH-WSI squadron and was carrying out a routine training mission involving low-level flying over the lake and had two officers — a [[lieutenant colonel|Lt Col]] A S Bath and a [[captain|Capt]] Jayant Joshi. The crash led to their death and their bodies were recovered from water after 12 and 76 days of the incident, respectively. Being an Army chopper, it lacked an emergency flotation gear (EFG). The [[search and rescue]] mission involved specialized divers and Dhruv and [[HAL Cheetah|Cheetah]] helicopters and, later, a heavy-lift [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|Chinook]] helicopter also joined the search.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-03 |title=Helmets, I-card recovered from Army chopper crash site, pilots missing |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/helmets-i-card-recovered-from-army-chopper-crash-site-pilots-missing-101628005351709.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804034648/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/helmets-i-card-recovered-from-army-chopper-crash-site-pilots-missing-101628005351709.html |archive-date=4 August 2021 |access-date=2021-08-04 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":12" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ranter |first=Harro |title=Incident HAL Dhruv, 03 Aug 2021 |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?save&id=266277&fbclid=IwAR0fxlTCSbLqDeOvwvEEkD5XwkckdV20q3b8LJgKtO0HdklxsrwFRyxHBlc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804034648/https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?save&id=266277&fbclid=IwAR0fxlTCSbLqDeOvwvEEkD5XwkckdV20q3b8LJgKtO0HdklxsrwFRyxHBlc |archive-date=4 August 2021 |access-date=2021-08-04 |website=aviation-safety.net}}</ref><ref name=":13" />
*21 October 2022: an Army Rudra, inducted in 2015, crashed killing two pilots and three soldiers onboard. The crash occurred near the [[Tuting]] area in [[Arunachal Pradesh]]’s [[Upper Siang district]] around 10:43 am. The crash was attributed to technical issues.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2022-10-22 |title=Over 400 indigenous Dhruv and its variant helicopters built since 2002, but at least 23 crashed |url=https://theprint.in/defence/over-400-indigenous-dhruv-and-its-variant-helicopters-built-since-2002-but-at-least-23-crashed/1178686/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-07 |title=Third Coast Guard chopper crash in less than 2 years: why are there repeated concerns over HAL’s indigenous military helicopter? |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/concerns-hal-indigenous-military-helicopter-9765403/lite/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

=== 2023 ===

*On 8 March 2023, a MK III naval variant made an emergency water landing off the coast of Mumbai, prompting the navy to ground the aircraft pending further investigation. All three crew members were rescued. Before the crash, the crew experienced a "sudden loss of power and rapid loss of height".<ref>{{cite web |title=3 rescued as Navy chopper makes emergency landing off Mumbai |url=https://www.rediff.com/news/report/3-rescued-as-navy-chopper-makes-emergency-landing-off-mumbai/20230308.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230730142043/https://www.rediff.com/news/report/3-rescued-as-navy-chopper-makes-emergency-landing-off-mumbai/20230308.htm |archive-date=30 July 2023 |website=rediff.com}}</ref><ref>[https://www.outlookindia.com/national/operations-of-alh-dhruv-helicopters-halted-due-to-the-recent-incident-of-emergency-landing-off-the-mumbai-coast-news-269049fd Outlook India] {{dead link|date=August 2023}}</ref> The crash led to the grounding of the entire 330-Dhruv fleet of the Indian Armed Forces as well as the Coast Guard. A problem with control rods were identified. Only few units of the Army until April were cleared for flight before another accident took place.<ref name=":11">{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2023-05-04 |title=Technician killed, 2 pilots injured as Army helicopter makes hard landing in J&K |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/army-chopper-crashes-in-j-ks-kishtwar-district/article66811209.ece/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
*On 26 March 2023, an Indian Coast Guard ALH Dhruv Mark 3 helicopter crashed during soon after takeoff from a height of 25&nbsp;ft near the main runway at [[Cochin International Airport|Kochi Airport]]. Three Indian Coast Guard servicemen on board survived with minor injuries.<ref>{{cite web |title=Indian Coast Guard helicopter ALH Dhruv crashes on runway of Kochi airport, no casualties reported; video surfaces |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/indian-coast-guard-helicopter-crashes-after-forced-landing-at-kochi-airport-during-test-flight |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326131316/https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/indian-coast-guard-helicopter-crashes-after-forced-landing-at-kochi-airport-during-test-flight |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=26 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=26 March 2023 |title=Coast Guard's ALH Dhruv Helicopter Crashes Near Kochi Airport, Runway Closed |url=https://zeenews.india.com/aviation/coast-guards-alh-dhruv-helicopter-crashes-near-kochi-airport-runway-closed-2588031.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230824010534/https://zeenews.india.com/aviation/coast-guards-alh-dhruv-helicopter-crashes-near-kochi-airport-runway-closed-2588031.html |archive-date=24 August 2023 |access-date=24 August 2023 |website=Zee News}}</ref>
*On 4 May 2023, a Dhruv of the Indian Army [[Northern Command (India)|Northern Command]] on an operational deployment made a hard landing on the banks of Marua river in [[Kishtwar]] region of Jammu and Kashmir at 11:15 am [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]. Two pilots were injured while Craftsmen (Aviation Technician) Pabballa Anil succumbed to his injuries. A technical fault was reported by the pilots to the [[Air traffic controller|ATC]]. The incident occurred while attempting a precautionary landing. The hard landing was attributed to undulating ground, undergrowth and unprepared landing area. This marked the third accident involving Dhruv in a 2-month span. The series of accidents resulted the mean time between checks for the helicopters to be brought down from 600 hours of flight to 300 and a further plan to 100-150.<ref name=":11" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=PTI |date=2023-05-04 |title=Technician killed, two pilots injured as Army helicopter crashes in J-K's Kishtwar district |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2023/may/04/technician-killed-twopilots-injured-as-army-helicopter-crashes-in-j-ks-kishtwar-district-2571995.html |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Mayank |date=2023-05-05 |title=Dhruv crash third incident in two months |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2023/May/04/dhruv-crash-third-incident-in-twomonths-2572185.html |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> On 6 May, the Army's Dhruv fleet was again grounded as a precautionary measure because this accident was not due to control rods like the previous incidents. Only IAF and ICG had a small batch of Dhruv flying as of then while the mean time between checks was down to 100 flying hours.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2023-05-06 |title=Army grounds ALH Dhruv fleet again following May 4 crash in Jammu and Kashmir |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/army-grounds-alh-dhruv-fleet-following-may-4-crash-in-jk/article66819308.ece |access-date=2025-01-07 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Army grounds ALH Dhruv fleet following May 4 crash in Jammu & Kashmmir |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/army-grounds-alh-dhruv-fleet-following-may-4-crash-in-jammu-kashmmir-1216265.html |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref>
The aluminium booster control rods, which were found to be the main reason of the recent accidents, are being replaced by steel ones. According to reports, the collective control rod has been replaced in the entire helicopter fleet while that of the other two rods (lateral and longitudinal) in the ALH fleet is underway, and is planned to be completed by end of June 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 May 2023 |title=India's Dhruv chopper needs critical safety upgrade: Panel |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-military-helicopter-fleet-grounded-for-safety-check-after-a-string-of-accidents-design-review-ordered-by-regulatory-body-101683656231941.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230628103009/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indian-military-helicopter-fleet-grounded-for-safety-check-after-a-string-of-accidents-design-review-ordered-by-regulatory-body-101683656231941.html |archive-date=28 June 2023 |access-date=11 September 2023 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=4 June 2024 |title=Entire Dhruv fleet set to get key safety upgrade by end of month |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/entire-dhruv-fleet-set-to-get-key-safety-upgrade-by-end-of-month-101717440521758-amp.html |access-date=4 June 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
=== 2024-25 ===
*'''2 September 2024:''' an Indian Coast Guard Dhruv Mk 3 (CG 863) of [[Indian Coast Guard#Current aircraft|835 Squadron]] conducted an [[emergency landing]] in the [[Arabian Sea]] at night when deployed for medical evacuation of a seriously injured crew on board Indian-flagged motor tanker Hari Leela about 45&nbsp;km from [[Porbandar]]. The helicopter was launched at around 2300 hrs [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] and crash landed at 2315 hrs while approaching the motor tanker ship. The injured crew was rescued by an ICG ship afterwards. The same helicopter had rescued 67 people in a recent [[Cyclone Asna|cyclonic weather]] in Gujarat.<ref name=":15" />
**'''Search operations:''' Of the 2 pilots and 2 divers on the helicopter, one diver (diver Gautam Kumar) was rescued by a search and rescue team and the search for the others were on. The wreckage was also found. The search and rescue team deployed included — four ships and two aircraft of the ICG and 2 specialised ships and diving ships of the Navy.<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |date=2024-09-03 |title=Coast Guard ALH ditches into Arabian Sea, 3 missing |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/coast-guard-alh-ditches-into-arabian-sea-3-missing-101725338628271.html |access-date=2024-09-04 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> Later, 2 missing personnel's body was recovered. They were later known to be pilot Vipin Babu and diver Karan Singh. For the incident, ICG grounded the Dhruv fleet for inspection.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2024-09-04 |title=Two dead, one missing after coast guard helicopter goes down in Arabian Sea |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-dead-one-missing-after-coast-guard-helicopter-goes-down-in-arabian-sea-101725390206620.html |access-date=2024-09-04 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> As of 6 September, the search for the captain is on along with the process of salvaging the helicopter. The average depth of search and rescue ops is 55&nbsp;m.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-05 |title=Indian Coast Guard and Navy assets intensify search for helicopter captain |url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-navy-assets-intensify-search-for-helicopter-captain-756071#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17255879549146&csi=0&referrer=https://www.google.com&ampshare=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-coast-guard-navy-assets-intensify-search-for-helicopter-captain-756071 |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=WION |language=en-us}}</ref> On 10 October, the remains of Commandant Rakesh Kumar Rana, the captain of the helicopter was located and recovered about 55&nbsp;km from southwest of Porbandar after a total of more than 70 air sorties and 82 ship days of search efforts by the ICG and the Indian Navy. He was [[cremated]] with full military honours the next day. This culminated the massive search operation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kshatriya |first=Dilip Singh |date=2024-10-11 |title=Body of missing Coast Guard pilot found over a month after helicopter crash near Gujarat |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Oct/11/body-of-missing-coast-guard-pilot-found-over-a-month-after-helicopter-crash-near-gujarat |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
*'''2 October 2024:''' an Indian Air Force ALH air-dropping relief material in flood-hit Bihar made a forced landing in a swamp following engine failure. All 4 crew were rescued.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IAF Chopper Air-Dropping Relief Material Makes Forced Landing In Bihar |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/iaf-chopper-air-dropping-relief-material-makes-emergency-landing-in-bihar-6699742 |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=NDTV.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Avinash |date=2 October 2024 |title=Bihar: IAF chopper on flood relief work makes emergency landing in flooded area |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/patna-news/bihar-iaf-chopper-on-flood-relief-work-makes-emergency-landing-in-flooded-area-101727866266707-amp.html |access-date=2 October 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
*'''5 January 2025:''' Dhruv of the ICG crashed in an open field at [[Porbandar Airport#Military Enclaves|CGAE Porbandar]], [[Gujarat]] and burst into flames. Both the pilots and the aircrew driver lost their lives in the incident. An inquiry was launched to for the crash which marked the third incident of Dhruv in four months.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Coast Guard Chopper Crashes In Gujarat's Porbandar, 3 Dead: Sources |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/coast-guard-chopper-crashes-in-gujarats-porbandar-3-dead-sources-7403835 |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=www.ndtv.com |language=en}}</ref> The particular helicopter was inducted into service in June 2021 and "had completed one 90-minute training sortie, with the crew undertaking running change for the next sortie. While hovering at around 200-feet, the ALH then crashed nose down and burst into flames".<ref name=":16">{{Cite news |date=2025-01-07 |title=Fatal Gujarat crash grounds entire Dhruv fleet, again |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/fatal-gujarat-crash-grounds-entire-dhruv-fleet-again/articleshow/117003481.cms |access-date=2025-01-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
**'''Investigation:''' 
***The FDR ([[flight data recorder]]) and CVR ([[cockpit voice recorder]]) of the chopper were being analysed under HAL and ICG's independent investigations and the Dhruv fleet (including [[HAL Rudra]]) was re-grounded again.<ref name=":16" /> The helicopter did not respond to pilot's command for 3-4 seconds before crashing. The civilian Dhruv fleet was also asked to be grounded by HAL on 11 January.<ref name=":14" /> 
***'''4 February:''' [[National Aerospace Laboratories|CSIR-NAL]] confirmed that the malfunctioning of the [[Swashplate (aeronautics)|swashplate]] —  a component of the transmission system — made the aircraft unresponsive. This is the first instance of such failure. A '''defect investigation committee''' (DIC), including members from [[CEMILAC]], HAL and Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), would evaluate the origin of the issue — quality, inspection or maintenance — and submit a report within four weeks after which "remedial actions" would be taken. The wreckage was transported to CSIR-NAL facility for investigation.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2025-02-04 |title=Rare transmission system failure led to ALH crash, shows inquiry |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/rare-transmission-system-failure-led-to-alh-crash-shows-inquiry-101738609206920-amp.html |access-date=2025-02-04 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>
***'''2 April:''' The fleet would be grounded for at least another three months as fleet-wide inspection revealed that few other Navy and ICG Dhruvs also developed cracks in the swashplate assembly, made of an aluminum alloy, mostly due to sustained operations in a saline environment. The same fault was also the reason of the ICG crash. The raw material was sent to [[Indian Institute of Science]] (IISc) to perform fatigue testing of the component in order to "get to the bottom of the matter". IISc would submit its report to DIC by April-end which would be incorporated into the report of DIC that is expected to be submitted by May. The timeline of returning the Dhruv fleet into service depends "on whether the checks can be carried out on the field or the integrated dynamic system, including the transmission system, gearbox and rotor hub, of each helicopter will have to be brought to HAL". The fleet could be grounded beyond three months "if the problem turns out to be more than a material failure — a design issue".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2025-04-02 |title=ALH to be grounded for 3 more months |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/alh-to-be-grounded-for-3-more-months-101743532670861.html |access-date=2025-04-03 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>
***'''26 June:''' While the Army and Air Force Dhruv helicopters have been cleared to resume operations, one instrumented Dhruv each from the Navy and Coast Guard is currently under analysis. These helicopters are equipped with sensors and gauges to capture critical data from their integrated dynamic systems — including the transmission, gearbox, and rotor hub — to assess the loads each subsystem can tolerate across different operational environments. The collected data will be analysed by the end of July.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2025-06-26 |title=Fix eludes HAL on navy, coast guard Dhruvs |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/fix-eludes-hal-on-navy-coast-guard-dhruvs-101750876633534.html |access-date=2025-06-26 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>
**'''Flight clearance:''' 
***On 23 April, the Indian Army gave limited clearance for the operation of its HAL Dhruv fleet for [[counterterrorism]] operations amid [[2025 Pahalgam attack]] and [[2025 India–Pakistan conflict]].<ref name=":17">{{Cite news |date=2025-04-23 |title=Army gives limited permission for grounded ALH Dhruv choppers for counter-terror ops in Srinagar, adjoining areas |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/army-gives-limited-permission-for-grounded-alh-dhruv-choppers-for-counter-terror-ops-in-srinagar-adjoining-areas/articleshow/120540863.cms |access-date=2025-05-02 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>
***On 1 May, the entire Army and Air Force Dhruv fleet was cleared for operations after safety checks.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Army, Air Force versions of ALH Dhruv cleared for operations after safety review |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/army-air-force-versions-of-alh-dhruv-cleared-for-operations-after-safety-review/articleshow/120794063.cms |access-date=2025-05-02 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
***On 11 June, the [[HAL Prachand]] fleet was also cleared for operations after replacing few sub-components as suggested by the defect investigation committee (DIC). The fleet was also grounded following the crash, because of its substantial design heritage from Dhruv.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-06-11 |title=After Dhruv ALH, Prachand copters cleared for flying |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/after-dhruv-alh-prachand-copters-cleared-for-flying/articleshow/121762665.cms |access-date=2025-06-11 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>


==Operators==
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->
[[File:HAL Dhruv operators.png|thumb|400px|Map of Dhruv operators in blue, former operator(s) in red]]
===Military operators===

* '''{{IND}}'''
** [[Indian Air Force]]: 95<ref name="World1">{{cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |year=2023 |title=World Air Forces 2024 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/download?ac=98881 |access-date=27 December 2023 |publisher=[[FlightGlobal]]}}</ref>
** [[Army Aviation Corps (India)|Indian Army Aviation Corps]]: 76<ref name=":72">{{Cite web |date=2023-02-15 |title=Army Chief says LCH good for high altitude; Army to procure 95 of them |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-army-chief-says-lch-good-for-high-altitude-army-to-procure-95-of-them-2982095/ |access-date=2024-02-16 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Team |first=IADN Editorial |date=2024-05-25 |title=HAL delivers Dhruv helicopters to Army within 2 weeks of contract signing - IADN |url=https://iadnews.in/hal-delivers-dhruv-helicopters-to-army-within-2-weeks-of-contract-signing/ |access-date=2024-05-26 |website=- IADN |language=en-GB}}</ref> (19 more on order)<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=MoD signs contracts worth Rs 8073 Cr with HAL for acquisition of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk III for Indian Army & Indian Coast Guard |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2014340 |access-date=2024-03-15 |website=pib.gov.in}}</ref>
** [[Indian Navy]]: 24<ref name="World1" />
** [[Indian Coast Guard]]: 20 delivered (4 Mk1; 16 Mk3).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Army Clears Grounded 'Dhruv' Chopper Fleet For Flight, But Conditions Apply |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/army-clears-grounded-dhruv-chopper-fleet-for-flight-but-conditions-apply-4080889 |access-date=2023-08-13 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Indian Coast Guard Advanced Light Helicopter Mk-III squadron, 840 Sqn (CG), commissioned in Chennai |url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1880134 |access-date=2023-08-13 |website=www.pib.gov.in}}</ref> 16 operational as of September 2024<ref name=":2" /> (9 on order;<ref name=":0" /> 6 more planned<ref name=":62">{{Cite news |date=2024-12-03 |title=DAC approves 05 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs. 21,772 Crores to augment defence preparedness |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2080155 |access-date=2024-12-03 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref>)
** [[Border Security Force]]: 6<ref>{{cite web |date=20 May 2009 |title=BSF gets Rs 360 crore for raising 29 new battalions |url=http://www.livemint.com/2009/05/20163444/BSF-gets-Rs360-crore-for-raisi.html?h=B |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090606210600/http://www.livemint.com/2009/05/20163444/BSF-gets-Rs360-crore-for-raisi.html?h=B |archive-date=6 June 2009 |access-date=31 August 2010 |publisher=Livemint.com}}</ref>
* '''{{ISR}}'''
** [[Ministry of Defense (Israel)|Ministry of Defense]]: 1 leased (2007)<ref>{{cite news |date=3 September 2007 |title=Israeli MOD Inducts Dhruv |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Israeli-MOD-Inducts-Dhruv/articleshow/2333038.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151107054323/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Israeli-MOD-Inducts-Dhruv/articleshow/2333038.cms |archive-date=7 November 2015 |access-date=3 September 2014 |newspaper=The Times of India |publisher=indiatimes.com}}</ref>
* '''{{MDV}}'''
** [[Maldives National Defence Force|National Defence Force]]: 2 in service<ref>{{Cite web |last=syndication |date=2024-02-08 |title=Indian troops in Maldives will be replaced by 'competent Indian technical personnel': MEA |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Feb/08/indian-troops-in-maldives-will-be-replaced-by-competent-indian-technical-personnel-mea |access-date=2024-03-07 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-02-09 |title=HAL workers may replace military staff in Maldives |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/hal-workers-may-replace-military-staff-in-maldives/articleshow/107535138.cms |access-date=2024-03-07 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
* '''{{MRI}}'''
** [[Mauritius Police Force]]: 3 in service<ref>{{cite web |title=La police s'équipe d'un nouvel hélicoptère |url=https://defimedia.info/la-police-sequipe-dun-nouvel-helicoptere |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230315121510/https://defimedia.info/la-police-sequipe-dun-nouvel-helicoptere |archive-date=15 March 2023 |access-date=15 March 2023}}</ref>
* '''{{NPL}}'''
** [[Nepalese Army Air Service]]: 1 in service<ref name="World Air Forces 20142">{{cite web |year=2014 |title=World Air Forces 2014 |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225081256/http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf |archive-date=25 December 2013 |access-date=5 September 2014 |publisher=Flightglobal Insight}}</ref>

====Former military operators====
;{{ECU}}
* [[Ecuadorian Air Force]]:<ref name="World1"/> 7 delivered, 4 crashed between October 2009 to January 2015<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-11-25 |title=Crash of two Dhruvs in Ecuador due to pilot error: Govt |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/pti-feed/story/crash-of-two-dhruvs-in-ecuador-due-to-pilot-error-govt-653081-2016-11-25 |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-11-25 |title=Crash of two Dhruv helicopters in Ecuador due to pilot error: Govt |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/crash-of-two-dhruv-helicopters-in-ecuador-due-to-pilot-error-govt-4395242/lite/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> (withdrawn from service in 2015)<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cuts-Dhruv-helicopter-contract-with-HAL-after-4-crashes/articleshow/49403144.cms|title=Ecuador cuts Dhruv helicopter contract with HAL after 4 crashes|website=The Times of India|access-date=31 January 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160206081615/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cuts-Dhruv-helicopter-contract-with-HAL-after-4-crashes/articleshow/49403144.cms|archive-date=6 February 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cancels-deal-with-HAL-for-crash-prone-Dhruv/articleshow/49425469.cms|title=Ecuador cancels deal with HAL for 'crash-prone' Dhruv|website=The Times of India|date=17 October 2015 |access-date=31 January 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207104122/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Ecuador-cancels-deal-with-HAL-for-crash-prone-Dhruv/articleshow/49425469.cms|archive-date=7 February 2016}}</ref>

===Civil operators===

[[File:HAL Dhruv Ambulance Version.jpg|thumb|ALH Dhruv air ambulance in [[Bengaluru, India]]]]

;{{IND}}
* [[Ministry of Home Affairs (India)|Ministry of Home Affairs]]<ref name="mail.hal-india.com">{{cite web |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=10 August 2008 |title=India bags $20 mn helicopter contract |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161019130659/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/india-bags-20-mn-helicopter-contract/346844 |archive-date=19 October 2016 |access-date=21 August 2011 |work=The Indian Express}}</ref>
* [[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation]]: 3 civil variants<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=HAL sells 3 choppers to ONGC for Rs 100 cr |url=https://www.rediff.com/money/2005/jun/24hal1.htm |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Rediff |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=OuinetAdmin |date=2005-06-27 |title=HAL Wins 3 Orders for Dhruv Helicopter (Jun 28) |url=https://www.defense-aerospace.com/hal-wins-3-orders-for-dhruv-helicopter-jun-28/ |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=Defense aerospace |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="HAL dhruv gets ccs approval">{{cite news| title =HAL dhruv gets ccs approval| date =23 December 2007| url =http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm| access-date =12 February 2013| location =Chennai, India| url-status =dead| archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20121107053624/http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/23/stories/2007122358280900.htm| work =[[The Hindu]]| archive-date =7 November 2012}}</ref>
* [[Government of Chhattisgarh|Chhattisgarh State Government]]<ref name="HAL dhruv gets ccs approval"/>
* [[Government of Jharkhand|Jharkhand State Government]]: 2 civil variants.<ref name=":7" /><ref name="auto">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/03/stories/2007090360691400.htm |title=HAL delivers Dhruv to Jharkhand |date=3 September 2007 |access-date=21 August 2011 |location=Chennai, India |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110125326/http://www.hindu.com/2007/09/03/stories/2007090360691400.htm |work=[[The Hindu]] |archive-date=10 November 2012}}</ref>
*[[Government of Karnataka|Karnataka State Government]]: 1 on lease.<ref name=":7" /><ref name="auto"/>
* [[Geological Survey of India]]: 1 [[#Civil variants|Garuda Vasudha]] variant<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=2014-01-23 |title=India joins elite club with heliborne geo-survey capability |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-joins-elite-club-with-heliborne-geo-survey-capability/articleshow/29262865.cms |access-date=2024-03-13 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref name="thin23j14" />
* [[Pawan Hans]]: 10 to be ordered. 28+ planned. To be operated on behalf of [[ONGC]].<ref name=":4" />
;{{TUR}}
* Turkish Health Services: 3<ref name= "Indian Express-1" />
;{{PER}}
* Peruvian Health Services: 2<ref name= 'peruorder'/>

==Specifications==
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=Jane's All the World's Aircraft<ref name="jawa-1617">{{cite book|editor1-last=Jackson|editor1-first=Paul|editor2-last=Peacock|editor2-first=Lindsay|editor3-last=Bushell|editor3-first=Susan|editor4-last=Willis|editor4-first=David|editor5-last=Winchester|editor5-first=Jim|title=IHS Jane's All the World's Aircraft: Development & Production|date=2016–2017|location=Couldson|isbn=978-0710631770|pages=307–308|chapter=India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/2020/06/navy-dhruv-spat-lets-stop-fighting-hal-test-pilot-says.html|title=NAVY-DHRUV SPAT: Let's Stop Fighting, HAL Test Pilot Says|date=11 June 2020|publisher=LiveFist|access-date=11 June 2020|archive-date=11 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200611131109/https://www.livefistdefence.com/2020/06/navy-dhruv-spat-lets-stop-fighting-hal-test-pilot-says.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|genhide=

|crew=Two pilots
|capacity=12 armed troops or 14 passengers
|length m=15.87
|length ft=
|length in=
|length note=
|width m=3.15
|width ft=
|width in=
|width note=
|height m=4.98
|height ft=
|height in=
|height note=with skid landing gear
|airfoil=
|empty weight kg=
|empty weight lb=
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=4445
|gross weight lb=
|gross weight note=for Mk III with wheels
|max takeoff weight kg=5800
|max takeoff weight lb=
|max takeoff weight note=for Mk III with skids
|fuel capacity={{cvt|1055|kg|lb}}
|more general=*'''Payload:''' {{cvt|1500|kg|lb}} underslung (Mk II)
*'''Payload:''' {{cvt|1000|kg|lb}} underslung (Mk III)
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=[[Turbomeca TM 333]]-2B2
|eng1 type=[[turboshaft]]
|eng1 kw=
|eng1 hp=
|eng1 shp=1082
|eng1 note=(Mk I and II)
|power original=
|thrust original=
|eng2 number=2
|eng2 name=[[HAL/Turbomeca Shakti]]-1H
|eng2 type=turboshaft
|eng2 kw=
|eng2 hp=
|eng2 shp=1432
|eng2 note=(Mk III and IV)
|more power=

|rot number=1
|rot dia m=13.2
|rot dia ft=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot dia in=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqm=136.85
|rot area sqft=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|perfhide=

|max speed kmh=
|max speed mph=
|max speed kts=
|max speed note=
|cruise speed kmh=
|cruise speed mph=
|cruise speed kts=135
|cruise speed note=for Mk III
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed mph=
|never exceed speed kts=157
|never exceed speed note=for Mk III
|range km=
|range miles=
|range nmi=340
|range note=for Mk III
|combat range km=
|combat range miles=
|combat range nmi=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range miles=
|ferry range nmi=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=3 hours and 42 minutes for Mk III
|g limits=3.5
|ceiling m=
|ceiling ft=20000
|ceiling note=<ref>{{cite web|last1=Luthra|first1=Gulshan|last2=Rai|first2=Ranjit|url=http://www.indiastrategic.in/topstories1200_ALH_touches_20000_feet.htm|title=IAF: ALH touches 20,000 feet and Cheetal 23,000|website=India Strategic|date=September 2011|access-date=6 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007051047/http://www.indiastrategic.in/topstories1200_ALH_touches_20000_feet.htm|archive-date=7 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>
|climb rate ms=10.33
|climb rate ftmin=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|lift to drag=
|wing loading kg/m2=
|wing loading lb/sqft=
|wing loading note=
|disk loading kg/m2=40.19
|disk loading lb/sqft=
|disk loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass=
|thrust/weight=

|more performance=
<!--
        Armament
-->
|armament=
|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
* [[HAL Rudra|Rudra]]
* [[HAL Prachand|Prachand]]
* [[HAL LUH]]
* [[HAL Medium Lift Helicopter]]
* [[Aérospatiale Alouette III]] (HAL Chetak)
* [[Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama]] (HAL Cheetah)
|similar aircraft=
* [[AgustaWestland AW169]]
* [[Bell 412]]
* [[Bell 429 GlobalRanger|Bell 429]]
* [[Eurocopter EC145]]
* [[Kazan Ansat]]
* [[KAI LCH]]
* [[KAI LAH]]
* [[MD Helicopters MD Explorer]]
* [[Sikorsky S-76]]
|sequence=
|lists=
* [[List of rotorcraft]]
}}

==References==
;Citations
{{Reflist|30em}}

;Bibliography
{{Refbegin}}
*{{cite book |last= Crawford |first= Steve |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=n69bvgAACAAJ |title= Twenty-First Century Military Helicopters: Today's Fighting Gunships |publisher= Zenith Imprint |year= 2003 |isbn= 0-7603-1504-3 }}
*{{cite book |first= Saikat |last= Datta |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=YzEEAAAAMBAJ |title= Hay After A Long Hover |publisher= Outlook Publishing |volume= 48 |issue= 28 |date= 14 July 2008 |pages= 12–13 }}
*{{cite web |first= Mike |last= Hirschberg |url= http://www.vtol.org/vertiflite/halHelicopters.pdf |title= From Chetak to Dhruv: The History of HAL Helicopters |publisher= VertiFlite |date= Spring 2011 |pages= 46–52 }}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}
*{{cite book|last=Jackson|first=Paul|title=Jane's All the World's Aircraft 2003–2004|year=2003|publisher=Jane's Information Group|location=Coulsdon, UK|isbn=0-7106-2537-5}}
*{{cite book |last= Kahn |first= J. A. |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=Na-V9H0dbrgC |title= Air Power and Challenges to IAF |publisher= APH Publishing |year= 2004 |isbn= 81-7648-593-4 }}
*{{cite book|last= Sakhuja |first=Vijay |title= Asian Maritime Power in the 21st Century: Strategic Transactions China, India and Southeast Asia |publisher= Institute of Southeast Asian Studies |year= 2011 |isbn= 978-981-4311-09-0}}
*{{cite web |author= Standing Committee on Defence |url= http://164.100.24.208/ls/CommitteeR/Defence/17threport.pdf |title= In-Depth Study and Critical Review of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) |publisher= Ministry of Defence |date= April 2007 |access-date= 28 July 2007 |archive-date= 9 August 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070809080245/http://164.100.24.208/ls/CommitteeR/Defence/17threport.pdf |url-status= live }}
*{{cite book |last= Singh |first= Ashok Kumar |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=CzV1MgFH6oMC |title= Science and Technology for Civil Service |publisher= Tata McGraw-Hill Education |year= 2008 |isbn= 978-0-07-065548-5 }}
{{Refend}}

==External links==
{{commons category|HAL Dhruv}}
* {{cite web|url=http://hal-india.co.in/Product_Details.aspx|title=Official website|access-date=5 October 2018|archive-date=28 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191128055554/http://hal-india.co.in/Product_Details.aspx|url-status=dead}}
* YouTube
** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_bqfOS6tG0 Video of HAL Dhruv advertisement]
** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_MfsPAAyzI Sarang helicopter display team performing at Aero-India]
** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xp009SS6QhM Video of Dhruv at Paris airshow 2007]

{{HAL aircraft}}

[[Category:HAL aircraft|Dhruv, HAL]]
[[Category:1990s Indian helicopters]]
[[Category:Military helicopters]]
[[Category:1990s Indian civil utility aircraft]]
[[Category:1990s Indian military utility aircraft]]
[[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1992]]