The Indian Army is gearing up to bolster its presence in the challenging terrains of Ladakh with the deployment of the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand Attack Helicopter by 2025.
This strategic move is prompted by the limitations of the Apache helicopters, which, while formidable in countering armored threats in desert environments, struggle to maintain their full operational capabilities in high-altitude regions.
The LCH Prachand, indigenously developed and designed specifically for high-altitude combat, is poised to fill this critical operational gap. Its induction into the Army Aviation, which has primarily operated utility helicopters, marks a significant advancement in the force's offensive capabilities. The first LCH Prachand squadron was deployed to Missamari, Assam, in the Eastern sector near the Line of Actual Control in November 2022.
This development aligns with the Chief of Defence Staff's assessment of the armed forces' need for dedicated attack helicopters, particularly in the context of high-altitude operations. A study conducted last year underscored the requirement for 39 heavy attack helicopters.
To meet this demand, the Defence Acquisition Council has greenlit the procurement of 156 LCH Prachand helicopters, with 90 allocated to the Army and 66 to the Air Force. This substantial order, estimated at ₹45,000 crore, supplements the ongoing acquisition of 15 limited series production LCH Prachand helicopters.
In addition to the LCH Prachand, the Army also operates 75 Rudra helicopters, which are armed versions of the Advanced Light Helicopter. This multi-pronged approach reflects the Army's commitment to enhancing its aerial combat capabilities across diverse operational environments.
The deployment of the LCH Prachand in Ladakh is anticipated to significantly enhance the Indian Army's combat readiness in high-altitude regions, providing a potent response to potential threats and ensuring the nation's security interests.
