In a landmark move for India's defence sector, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved the biggest-ever helicopter deal, awarding Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) a ₹62,000 crore contract for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), also known as "Prachand." This deal marks a significant boost for the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF), strengthening defence preparedness along the China and Pakistan borders.

HAL's Biggest Helicopter Order

This massive defence deal is the largest order received by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to date. The helicopters will be manufactured at HAL’s facilities in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka, further bolstering India's defence manufacturing and aerospace industry.

According to defence sources, the order will be divided between the Indian Army (90 helicopters) and the Indian Air Force (66 helicopters) to enhance operational capability in high-altitude warfare zones like Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh.

Why is the HAL Prachand Special?

The HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), commonly known as Prachand, is the world’s only attack helicopter that can land and take off at an altitude of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). This unique capability makes it ideal for operations in high-altitude conflict zones like the Himalayas.

Key features of the HAL Prachand LCH:

• Designed for high-altitude warfare in extreme conditions.

• Armed with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles for precision attacks.

• Equipped to destroy enemy air defence systems, making it a crucial asset for the Indian military.

Strategic Impact of the Helicopter Deal

The ₹62,000 crore investment is not only a strategic boost to the Indian defence ecosystem but also a major step towards job creation and domestic aerospace expansion. The deal aligns with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, reducing reliance on foreign defence imports.

Additional CCS Approvals – ATAGS Howitzers Deal

Apart from the helicopter procurement, the Cabinet Committee on Security also approved a ₹7,000 crore deal for 307 ATAGS howitzers. The contract is split between two Indian defence manufacturers: Bharat Forge and Tata Group.

Conclusion

With this record-breaking ₹62,000 crore deal for 156 HAL Prachand helicopters, India is making a significant leap in self-reliant defence manufacturing. The deployment of these helicopters along critical borders will enhance India’s air combat capabilities and deter adversaries.

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