As the Indian Army modernizes its forces to meet contemporary warfare challenges, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, the acquisition of attack helicopters remains a crucial element.
However, persistent delays in the delivery of Apache helicopters from the United States have prompted calls for a greater focus on the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand.
The Indian Army is actively enhancing its capabilities to address the demands of modern warfare, especially in high-altitude and contested border regions. A key component of this modernization effort is the acquisition of attack helicopters.
These aircraft are vital for providing close air support to ground troops, conducting reconnaissance missions, and launching precision strikes across varied terrains.
In 2020, the Indian Army contracted with the United States for six Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, at cost of approximately $600 million, to boost its offensive power, especially along the western border with Pakistan.
The Apache, known for its advanced technology, firepower, and survivability, is a significant asset. The Indian Air Force (IAF) already operates 22 Apaches, acquired in a 2015 deal, demonstrating their effectiveness in desert and plains environments.
However, the delivery schedule for the Army's Apache helicopters has faced significant setbacks. Originally slated for delivery in mid-2024, the timeline has been repeatedly pushed back due to supply chain issues and manufacturing delays in the U.S.
As of March 2025, none of the helicopters have been delivered, with projections suggesting arrival later in the year, or potentially even in 2026. This delay impacts the operational readiness of the 451 Army Aviation Squadron near Jodhpur, which is fully prepared to house and operate the helicopters.
In light of these delays, the domestically produced LCH Prachand presents itself as a strong alternative, potentially even exceeding the Apache in certain operational scenarios.
Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Prachand was specifically designed for the Indian armed forces' requirements, particularly in high-altitude areas like Ladakh and the Siachen Glacier.
The LCH Prachand possesses several key advantages within the Indian context:
- Superior High-Altitude Performance: The Prachand is uniquely capable of operating at altitudes up to 6,500 meters (21,300 feet), a critical capability for India's mountainous border regions. It has proven its ability to take off and land at extreme altitudes, including demonstrations in the Siachen Glacier at 15,800 feet. According to the Ministry of Defence, this operational ceiling is unmatched by any other attack helicopter in the world. In contrast, the Apache has faced operational challenges in similar high-altitude conditions.
- Significant Cost Advantages: The LCH Prachand is considerably more affordable than the Apache. While each Apache under the Army's deal is estimated at around $100 million, the Prachand is priced at approximately $50 million per unit. This allows for the procurement of a larger number of helicopters within the same budget, enhancing operational flexibility.
- Domestic Supply Chain Security: Being an indigenous platform, the Prachand offers greater control over production, maintenance, and future upgrades. With more than 50% indigenous content, and plans to increase this further, the Prachand supports India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative, which aims to reduce dependence on foreign defense suppliers. This contrasts with the vulnerabilities exposed by the Apache delays, highlighting the risks of relying on international supply chains.
- Proven Operational Readiness: The LCH Prachand is already in service, with the IAF formally inducting it in October 2022 and the Army establishing its first squadron in Assam in November 2022. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the purchase of 156 additional Prachand helicopters (90 for the Army, 66 for the IAF) at an estimated value of ₹45,000 crore (approximately $5.5 billion).
Furthermore, increased investment in the Prachand supports India's long-term objective of achieving self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing, a critical factor for maintaining military preparedness amidst global supply chain uncertainties.
