In a significant step towards bolstering India's indigenous defense capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has secured a ₹45,000 crore tender from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to manufacture 156 Prachand Light Combat Helicopters (LCH).
This landmark deal, announced on Monday, reinforces the government's commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.
The tender encompasses 90 LCHs for the Indian Army and 66 for the Indian Air Force, with each Prachand helicopter uniquely equipped to operate in high-altitude regions like the Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh.
The Prachand's ability to land and take off at 5,000 meters, combined with its arsenal of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, makes it a formidable asset for India's armed forces.
This procurement follows another major tender awarded to HAL in April for 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets, estimated at over ₹65,000 crore. Together, these contracts highlight the growing confidence in India's domestic defence industry and its capacity to produce cutting-edge military equipment.
