State-owned aerospace and defence company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has confirmed that the initial batch of its indigenously developed LCH Prachand helicopters is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Armed Forces beginning in March 2028.
This development follows a major agreement secured by HAL earlier this year for the supply of 156 Prachand helicopters. The comprehensive deal, valued at approximately Rs. 62,700 crore before taxes, also encompasses associated training and equipment.
This substantial contract marks a significant step forward for India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing and its push towards modernising its armed forces.
The order specifies that 90 Prachand helicopters will be allocated to the Indian Army, which plans to deploy them for various roles including combat support in mountainous terrain. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to receive the remaining 66 units, bolstering its aerial firepower.
HAL anticipates fulfilling the entire order for all 156 helicopters within a timeframe of five and a half to six years once deliveries commence. To meet this schedule, the company plans an annual production output of 30 LCH Prachand units.
These advanced combat helicopters will be produced at HAL's modern manufacturing plant in Tumkuru, Karnataka. This facility is already responsible for the production of the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) and its expansion for the LCH project is indicative of HAL's growing indigenous production capacity.
The LCH Prachand, an indigenous creation designed and developed entirely by HAL, is a sophisticated multi-role combat helicopter. It is specifically engineered for exceptional performance in high-altitude environments, such as the challenging Himalayan mountain ranges, making it uniquely capable of operating effectively in these demanding conditions even with a considerable load of weapons and fuel.
The LCH Prachand is noted for being the only attack helicopter globally that can land and take off at altitudes exceeding 5,000 metres.
Equipped with cutting-edge avionics, modern stealth characteristics, and the ability to carry precision-guided weapons, the Prachand is designed for diverse combat roles. These include engaging armoured targets, providing close air support to ground troops, and conducting counter-insurgency operations, thereby enhancing the operational preparedness of the Indian military.
