HAL Rudra
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited · India · first flew 2007 · fighter
The HAL Rudra (WSI) is an armed variant of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Dhruv multi-role helicopter, fitted with stub wings, a nose-mounted gun, rockets, and missiles to serve as an attack helicopter for the Indian armed forces.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 15.87 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Armed derivative of the HAL Dhruv
- Stub wings carry rockets and gun pod
- First Indian indigenously armed attack helicopter
Resembles the standard Dhruv utility helicopter but is identified by its prominent stub weapons wings, nose gun turret, and cockpit sensor systems.
Specifications
- The HAL Rudra has a length of 15.87 m (52 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.2 m (43 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 280 km/h (174 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Development of the Rudra began in the 2000s as HAL sought to provide India with an indigenous armed helicopter capability. The first armed prototype flew in 2007, and after an extended development and certification process, the Rudra entered service with the Indian Army and Air Force.
Variants
The Rudra (WSI — Weapon System Integrated) is the primary armed variant of the Dhruv; the basic Dhruv platform spawned several unarmed utility and naval variants as well.
Where you'll see it
Operates with the Indian Army Aviation Corps and the Indian Air Force; it has been used in high-altitude operations in the Himalayan region.
Related aircraft
- HAL Tejas
- HAL Light Utility Helicopter
- HAL Dhruv Mk.1
- HAL HPT-32 Deepak
- BAe Hawk T.2
- Boeing EA-18G Growler
- F-35 Lightning II
- Hongdu JL-10
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