On March 28, 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved a landmark deal for the purchase of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), valued at over Rs 62,000 crore, from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). This significant procurement marks the largest order in HAL's history and is set to enhance the operational capabilities of both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF) along the challenging borders with China and Pakistan.
The allocation of the helicopters will see 90 units designated for the Indian Army and 66 for the IAF. The LCH, also known as Prachand, is notable for being the world’s only attack helicopter capable of taking off and landing at altitudes ranging from 5,000 to 16,400 feet, making it particularly suited for high-altitude operations in areas such as the Siachen glacier and eastern Ladakh.
HAL had received the tender for these helicopters in June 2024, and the production will take place at their facilities in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka. Defence sources have indicated that this deal is not only a major step forward for military capabilities but also a crucial move towards job creation and the expansion of India’s aerospace ecosystem.
The Prachand helicopters are equipped to fire a variety of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, enhancing their combat effectiveness. They are designed to conduct operations that include destroying enemy air defense systems, thus playing a vital role in modern warfare.
The government's push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing, encapsulated in the Make in India initiative, is further evidenced by this procurement. This move aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, which emphasizes indigenous production of defense systems. In addition to the LCH order, the government has placed significant orders for other indigenous systems, including 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and plans to procure 97 more, with negotiations already concluded.
Moreover, the Cabinet Committee on Security has recently approved a deal for 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), with a Rs 7,000 crore contract set to be signed on April 2, 2025. This contract is divided between two major players in the industry, Bharat Forge and the Tata Group.
Overall, the approval of the LCH deal represents a significant enhancement to India's military capabilities and reflects the government's commitment to bolstering indigenous defense production. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the ability to operate effectively in high-altitude regions becomes increasingly critical, and the Prachand helicopters are poised to play an essential role in that strategy.
With the induction of the LCH into service, the Indian armed forces are expected to gain a tactical advantage in mountainous terrains, where traditional helicopters may struggle. The Prachand's advanced features and capabilities will likely serve as a force multiplier, allowing for improved operational efficiency and effectiveness.
As India continues to prioritize its defense manufacturing capabilities, the LCH deal stands as a testament to the country's resolve to develop a self-sustaining defense industry that can meet both current and future challenges. The successful execution of this order will not only enhance military operations but also stimulate economic growth through job creation and technological advancement in the aerospace sector.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the Light Combat Helicopters is a pivotal moment for India's defense strategy, reflecting a broader commitment to self-reliance and modernization in military capabilities. As these helicopters enter service, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in safeguarding India's national interests and enhancing its defense posture in a complex and dynamic security environment.
