The Indian Army achieved a significant milestone with the successful inaugural firing of 70mm rockets and 20mm turret guns from the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) “Prachand.” This achievement marks a critical development for the first LCH squadron of the Army, stationed at Missamari, which conducted the firing tests at the Likabali Air Force Station in Arunachal Pradesh. The exercise included both day and night firing and was conducted to validate the armament capabilities of an LCH Squadron.
The Prachand: India’s Indigenous Multi-Role Combat Helicopter
The “Prachand” is India’s first indigenous multi-role combat helicopter, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This advanced helicopter is tailored to meet the specific operational requirements of the Indian armed forces, particularly in challenging environments such as deserts and mountainous regions. It boasts the powerful Shakti Engine, a collaborative effort between HAL and France’s Safran, and received operational clearance in 2017.
Versatile Capabilities
The Prachand is engineered to carry out a wide range of activities, including Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), operations against slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), high-altitude bunker-busting operations, counter-insurgency operations in jungle and urban settings, and providing essential support to ground forces. With a weight class of 5.8 tonnes, the Prachand can achieve a maximum speed of 288 kmph, has a combat radius of 500 km, and boasts a service ceiling of 21,000 feet. The helicopter is also equipped with Helina missiles, known as Dhruvastra in the air force version.
Deployment Along the Border with China
The Indian Army and Air Force have expressed interest in acquiring Prachand helicopters for deployment along the border with China. The Army had inducted its first LCH on 29 September 2022, marking a significant enhancement in the country’s defense capabilities.
