Sumit Joshi 28 Mar 2025 : In a historic move, India has approved its largest-ever defence procurement, clearing the purchase of 156 indigenous Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) ‘Prachand’ for the Indian Army and Air Force. The ₹45,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was sanctioned by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Friday.
Defence officials stated, “This is HAL’s biggest order to date, and the helicopters will be manufactured at their plants in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka.”
Biggest Order for Indigenous Combat Helicopters
This contract is a major boost for India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. HAL had received its initial orders for LCH in June 2024, and now, mass production has been approved. Out of 156 helicopters, 90 will be inducted into the Indian Army, while 60 will join the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Cutting-Edge Features of LCH ‘Prachand’
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High-altitude capability: The only attack helicopter capable of taking off and landing at altitudes between 5,000 and 16,400 feet, making it ideal for mountain warfare.
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Advanced weaponry: Armed with both air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, enhancing operational flexibility.
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Network-centric warfare: Equipped with integrated data chips, enabling real-time coordination in modern battlefields.
HAL’s Role in India’s Defence Modernisation
Formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in October 2022, the Prachand helicopters have been hailed as game-changers for India’s aerial combat capabilities. This deal adds to India’s record ₹2.09 lakh crore defence contracts signed this financial year, further strengthening the country’s indigenous military production.
