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In a major step towards bolstering India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance, the government has signed a Rs 62,700 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the acquisition of 156 Prachand Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs). This agreement, the largest ever in its category, was finalized following approval from the Prime Minister-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The induction of these advanced helicopters aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in challenging high-altitude battle zones like eastern Ladakh and the Siachen Glacier.
Strategic Role and Deployment of LCHs
As per the approved distribution plan, the Indian Army will receive 90 of these combat helicopters, while the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be equipped with 66. The LCHs are designed to conduct high-intensity offensive operations and precision strikes in difficult terrains, featuring state-of-the-art weaponry such as 20mm turret guns, 70mm rocket systems, and air-to-air missiles. Their deployment is expected to provide a substantial tactical advantage in mountainous and high-altitude regions where rapid response and firepower are critical for mission success.
The latest procurement will supplement the 15 LCHs (10 for the IAF and five for the Army) inducted in 2022 under a previous contract worth Rs 3,887 crore. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, “Prachand is a formidable machine. This decision significantly strengthens India’s combat capabilities and reinforces our commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.”
Manufacturing and Delivery Timeline
The production of the 156 LCHs will take place at HAL’s advanced helicopter manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru and Tumakuru. According to the contract terms, deliveries will begin within three years, with HAL aiming to manufacture 30 helicopters annually. This structured production plan ensures a steady and timely integration of these combat helicopters into the armed forces, allowing for a smooth transition in upgrading India’s aerial combat capabilities.
Other Defence Procurement and Cooperation Agreements
Alongside this historic deal, the CCS has also given the green light to a new defence cooperation agreement with Sri Lanka. This agreement is expected to further solidify regional defence partnerships and advance India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region. The agreement comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Sri Lanka, highlighting the importance of enhanced defence collaboration between the two nations.
Meanwhile, two other high-value defence procurements—namely, the acquisition of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets from France and the construction of three additional Scorpene submarines at Mazagon Docks—have been deferred to the next fiscal year. Together, these pending deals are estimated to be worth nearly Rs 1 lakh crore (approximately € 10.6 billion). Although temporarily postponed, these procurements remain a top priority on India’s defence agenda and are expected to be finalized in due course.
Advancing Indigenous Artillery Systems
In addition to the LCH contract, the CCS has sanctioned the acquisition of 307 indigenous advanced towed artillery systems, along with their gun-towing vehicles, at an estimated cost of Rs 6,900 crore. This procurement aims to significantly enhance the Indian Army’s artillery strength while reinforcing India’s commitment to domestic defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The decision to invest in advanced indigenous weaponry underscores India’s determination to modernize its armed forces while reducing dependence on foreign defence suppliers. With a clear focus on self-reliance and strategic partnerships, India continues to make considerable advancements in bolstering national security and military capabilities. The latest acquisitions mark another milestone in India’s journey towards establishing itself as a global defence manufacturing hub.
With a passion for news writing and a deep interest in Journalism, Bowrna wants to write articles that create an impact. Not only writing, she also has a passion for voiceovers and also aspires to become a Radio Jockey in the future. When not writing, she likes to listen to songs and dance to her heart's content. She is proficient in English, Tamil and Hindi.
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