Siachen’s New Guardians: 156 Prachand Helicopters from HAL’s Tumkur

On Friday, 28th March, India secured its biggest defense deal to date by acquiring 156 Prachand (meaning "fierce" or "intense") Light Combat Helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Valued at Rs 62,700 crore, this monumental agreement, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, represents a major advancement in bolstering the capabilities of both the Indian Army and Air Force. Known as the world’s lightest combat helicopter, the Prachand stands out for its agility and performance.

HAL received the order for these helicopters in June 2024, and the fleet will be divided between the Indian Army (90 units) and the Indian Air Force (66 units). The helicopters are being manufactured at HAL’s facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka, and will be deployed along India’s strategic borders with China and Pakistan. Defense experts highlight the deal as not only a military enhancement but also a boost to India’s aerospace industry and job creation.

Why Prachand Stands Out

The Prachand Light Combat Helicopter is the only attack helicopter capable of landing and taking off at altitudes ranging from 5,000 feet (1524 metres) to 16,400 feet (approx 5000 metres). This unique ability makes it indispensable for high-altitude operations in challenging terrains like the Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh. Built to support both border defense and troop operations, it is an embodiment of India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Built on Proven Design

The Prachand LCH is based on the advanced design philosophy of HAL's Dhruv helicopter. While it shares some components with Dhruv, it is specifically optimized for combat roles, including enhanced flight controls and hydraulics to support its role as a dedicated attack helicopter. The structural modifications and reinforced airframe ensure durability and high maneuverability, crucial for hostile environments and high-altitude warfare.

A Versatile Combat Machine

The Prachand LCH is designed and manufactured entirely in India by HAL, marking it as the nation’s first indigenously developed combat helicopter. It can attack ground targets and engage aerial threats, making it a critical asset for both the Indian Army and Air Force. The helicopter’s versatility shines through its ability to target slow-moving aerial threats, perform counter-insurgency missions, destroy enemy defenses, and assist in search-and-rescue operations. Its precision targeting capabilities make it equally effective in urban and jungle environments.

Built to Last and Perform

The HAL Prachand Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), measures about 15.8 meters (51 ft 10 in) long, has a wingspan of 4.6 meters (15ft 1in), and stands 4.7 meters(15ft 5in) tall.

When empty, it weighs roughly 2,250 kilograms. It can carry up to 1,750 kilograms of weapons and equipment. Fully loaded, its maximum takeoff weight is 5,800 kilograms.

The helicopter can travel up to 550 kilometers without needing to refuel. It usually cruises at around 260 km/h, but can reach a top speed of 268 km/h.It climbs at a rate of 12 meters per second, reaching a service ceiling of 6,500 meters. 

Powered by two HAL/Turbomeca Shakti engines producing 871 kilowatts each, the helicopter ensures reliable performance over extended missions. These engines are specifically designed for high-altitude performance, offering excellent power-to-weight ratios and long operational life. Each engine weighs just 205 kilograms and operates seamlessly for up to 3,000 hours without requiring major maintenance.

Pilot Efficiency and Safety

The helicopter features a tandem-seat configuration where the pilot and co-pilot/gunner sit one behind the other. This configuration enhances visibility and operational coordination. The advanced avionics, including a digital flight control system, reduce the pilot's workload, allowing them to focus on combat and mission management. The integrated health monitoring system keeps track of the engine's performance, providing8 real-time updates to ensure flight safety and engine efficiency.

Also read: CCS nod for 156 LCH Prachand; Defence Ministry inks contract with HAL worth Rs 62,700 crore

Advanced Features and Weaponry

The LCH’s modern glass cockpit features multifunctional displays, a targeting system, and a digital video recorder to document combat operations. The helmet-mounted sight and an advanced data link system enhance mission coordination.

Armament includes: 

20 mm Nose Gun:  

- Mounted in the front  

- Fires at a rate of 800 rounds per minute  

- Effective firing range up to 2 km  

70 mm Rocket Pods:  

- Mounted on the stub wings  

- Direct firing range up to 4 km  

- Indirect firing range up to 8 km  

Electro-Optical Pod:  

- Positioned above the nose gun  

- Enables long-range day and night surveillance and target tracking  

Missile Systems:  

Dhruvastra: Anti-tank guided missile  

Mistral-2 : Air-to-air missile with a maximum interception range of 6.5 km

Additionally, it can drop iron bombs, cluster bombs, and grenades to counter various threats

Smart and Stealthy Design

With a main rotor diameter of 13.3 meters and a tail rotor of 2.05 meters, the helicopter’s design ensures stability and agility. Its robust landing gear can withstand rough terrain. The stealth design minimizes its radar signature, while its infrared suppression system developed in collaboration with WR Davis Engineering, Canada, reduces vulnerability to heat-seeking missiles.

Advanced Sensor Suite

The LCH is equipped with cutting-edge sensors, including a forward-looking infrared camera and a charge-coupled device camera to track targets under adverse weather conditions. Its laser guidance system ensures precise targeting. Defensive measures include radar warning receivers, laser warning systems, missile alert systems, and electronic countermeasures to safeguard against enemy fire.

A Journey from Concept to Reality

HAL first proposed the LCH in 2006, receiving government approval the same year with a development budget of Rs 376 Crores. The first prototype debuted at Aero India 2007, followed by successful test flights in 2010. After extensive testing and modifications, the government approved the purchase of 15 units in March 2022 at a cost of Rs 3887 Crores, plus Rs 308 Crores for infrastructure development.

A Critical Addition to India’s Defense

The Prachand LCH’s robust performance and adaptability to diverse combat scenarios make it a strategic asset for the Indian military. Its indigenous development underscores India’s growing defense capabilities while providing a reliable tool for high-altitude operations and battlefield support.

(Girish Linganna is an award-winning science writer and a defense, aerospace, and political analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also the Director of ADD Engineering Components, India Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)

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