Monday, January 24 2005 18:12 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Bangalore: India began ground tests for an upgraded 'Chetak' helicopter "Chetan" re-engined with a high power engine used in its Dhruv helicopters, with the maiden flight expected by this month end.

Chetan, funded by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is being designed to evacuate casualties from high altitude areas in the Himalayas and the North East, HAL said today (Jan 24, 2005). The Chetans will sport a glass cockpit giving the pilot a versatility in monitoring onboard systems and be powered by a Snecma TM 333 2B2 used in Dhruv helicopters, and replacing the existing Artouste 3B engine.

"The modern engine will make Chetan a highly reliable helicopter with far less fuel consumption which will increase its range, endurance and useful load," HAL chairman Ashok K Baweja said.

HAL is also involving DGCA (Director General of Civil Aviation) officials in the flight-testing process to get the civil certification for Chetan, he said.

India's Armed Forces and civil operators are currently using 300 Chetaks across the country.

The Chetan project, started six months ago, received impetus after HAL's Cheetal, the re-engined Cheetah helicopters created a world record by landing 25,150 feet on Saser Kangi peak, near the Siachen glacier.

HAL plans to fly the Chetan at the forthcoming Aero India air show to be held in Bangalore in February.