HAL to Co-Develop LCH's Electronic Warfare Suite with A Global Partner, Reviewing Proposals from SAAB, Elettronica, Hensoldt, and Elbit

In a significant move to bolster its indigenous military aviation capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to select an international technology partner for the joint development of a sophisticated Electronic Warfare (EW) suite for its Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) "Prachand."

This initiative is a crucial step under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ policy to achieve self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

The state-owned aerospace and defence company is currently evaluating technical and commercial proposals from four of the world’s leading defence electronics firms.

The contenders include SAAB of Sweden, known for its advanced Gripen fighter jet EW systems; Elettronica of Italy, a specialised supplier of electronic defence equipment; Hensoldt from Germany, a major provider of sensor solutions; and Elbit Systems of Israel, a company with extensive, battle-proven experience in EW technology.

The selection of a partner is being watched closely by the global defence industry.

The advanced EW suite is designed to function as a formidable electronic shield for the LCH Prachand, dramatically increasing its survivability in contested airspace.

This integrated system will provide the aircrew with comprehensive situational awareness by automatically detecting, identifying, and neutralising a wide range of threats.

Key components will include next-generation radar and laser warning receivers, missile approach warning systems, and countermeasure dispensers for deploying chaff and flares. This will allow the helicopter to manage threats in real-time and ensure mission effectiveness.

This co-development project is strategically important for India. Rather than simply importing a finished product, the partnership model is intended to facilitate the transfer of critical technology and build domestic expertise.

The LCH Prachand, the world’s only attack helicopter capable of landing and taking off at altitudes of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), has already proven its high-altitude operational capabilities in challenging terrains like Ladakh and the Siachen Glacier.

Equipping it with a cutting-edge, co-developed EW suite will further solidify its role as a key asset for the Indian Army and Air Force, enhancing the nation’s defence posture with locally produced, world-class technology.

 

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[DS]

India’s flying tank , needs to be upgraded to defeat PLA in the Himalayas . The Indo- Tibetan border must be strengthened for likely combat in the years ahead .

 

[Kira]

So it was not an indigenous suit, as previously reported, but that's okay. At least HAL should stick with what already works, so SAAB would have the advantage as they are already supplying to HAL.