Jodhpur: In a big boost to self-reliance in defence, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh on Monday presided over the formal induction of light combat helicopter (LCH), designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in Jodhpur.
Named ‘Prachanda’, the LCH is packed with tremendous power and versatility. It will not only enhance combat capabilities of IAF but its induction is considered as a big step towards self-reliance in defence production. The LCH is the first indigenous multi-role combat helicopter designed to be fit for ground attack and aerial combat capability. Inducted in IAF’s newly raised No. 143 Helicopter Unit, it is a testimony to India’s growing prowess in indigenous design, development & manufacturing and a significant milestone in the path towards ‘Atmanirbharta’ in defence.
The helicopter possesses modern stealth characteristics, robust armour protection and formidable night attack capability. Onboard advanced navigation system, guns tailored for close combat and potent air to air missiles make the LCH especially suited for the modern battlefield. Capable of operating from high altitude terrain and carrying out precision strike at high altitude targets, the helicopter is a formidable addition to IAF’s arsenal.
“The induction of LCH underlines the fact that just as the country trusts the Indian Air Force, the IAF equally trusts the indigenous equipment,” said the defence minister, adding that adequate attention was not paid to the development of indigenous attack helicopters for a long time after independence.
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“However, since the Kargil War in 1999, the need for LCH was felt more and today’s LCH was a result of two decades of R&D and indigenous efforts in that direction,” said Singh, adding that LCH was flying not only on the strength of its rotors, engines and blades, but also on the strength of penance, patience, dedication and patriotism of many scientists, engineers and others.
About specifications of Prachanda, a senior IAF official said that the LCH is capable of self-protection, of carrying a wide variety of ammunition, and delivering it to the field quickly. “This versatile helicopter perfectly meets the needs of our armed forces in various terrains and as such LCH is an ideal platform for both our Army and Air Force,” he added.
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Air chief marshal VR Chaudhary, the chief of air staff, said on the occasion that induction of LCH adds unique capability to the IAF’s combat potential. Versatility and offensive potential of the LCH is at par or better than most attack helicopters operating globally. Selection of the personnel in the 143-helicopter unit which will man the LCH have been made based on professional competence so as to ensure operationalisation of the unit at the earliest, he added.
