India Approves Historic ₹62,000 Crore Deal for 156 Indigenous 'Prachand' Combat Helicopters

In a landmark move to bolster India's defense capabilities and promote indigenous manufacturing, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), named 'Prachand,' from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This monumental deal, valued at over ₹62,000 crore, stands as the largest defense contract in India's history.

Allocation and Manufacturing

The distribution of these helicopters will see 90 units allocated to the Indian Army and 66 to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Manufacturing will take place at HAL's facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka, emphasizing the government's commitment to the 'Make in India' initiative and enhancing self-reliance in defense production.​

Strategic Capabilities of the LCH 'Prachand'

The LCH 'Prachand' is uniquely designed for high-altitude operations, capable of landing and taking off at altitudes up to 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). This capability makes it particularly suited for deployment in challenging terrains such as the Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh. Equipped to fire both air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, the helicopter also features advanced data links, enabling seamless integration into network-centric operations and enhancing operational coordination and effectiveness.​

Development and Induction Timeline

The development of the LCH began in the early 2000s, with its maiden flight in March 2010. The IAF formally inducted the first batch of these helicopters in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in India's defense aviation sector. This recent approval for mass procurement underscores the government's confidence in the LCH's capabilities and its commitment to strengthening the nation's aerial combat prowess.​

Economic and Strategic Implications

This procurement is expected to have far-reaching economic and strategic benefits:​

• Job Creation and Industrial Growth: The production of 156 helicopters will stimulate job creation and expand the aerospace ecosystem within the country, providing a significant boost to the domestic defense industry.​

• Enhanced Border Security: With the induction of these helicopters, the Indian armed forces will have a formidable asset for operations along the borders with China and Pakistan, enhancing surveillance and combat capabilities in these sensitive regions.​

• Technological Advancement: The integration of advanced technologies in the LCH 'Prachand' will contribute to the overall technological advancement of India's defense manufacturing sector, fostering innovation and expertise.​

Conclusion

The approval of this historic deal marks a significant step forward in India's journey toward self-reliance in defense production. The induction of the LCH 'Prachand' will not only strengthen the operational capabilities of the Indian Army and Air Force but also serve as a testament to India's growing prowess in indigenous defense technology development.