India has approved a landmark defense deal worth over 620 billion rupees ($7.3 billion) for the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), marking the country’s biggest-ever defense contract. The deal was greenlit by the Cabinet Committee on Security on Friday, with HAL, a state-run defense manufacturer, tasked with supplying the helicopters, reads an RT report.
The proposed acquisitions include upgraded engines for the Indian Army’s Russian-made T-90 battle tanks, additional anti-submarine torpedoes for the Navy, and airborne early warning and control systems for the Air Force.
Under this agreement, 90 helicopters will be delivered to the Indian Army, while 66 will go to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The LCH Prachand, recognized as the only attack helicopter capable of operating at altitudes up to 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), is designed for high-altitude operations, including in regions such as the Siachen Glacier and Eastern Ladakh—areas sensitive due to tensions with neighboring Pakistan and China.
The Prachand is equipped with advanced weapons systems, including air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, enabling it to effectively neutralize enemy air defense systems and support network-centric warfare. These capabilities make it an essential asset for India’s defense operations along its borders.
The induction of the LCH into the air force took place in October 2022, and prior to this deal, the government had already approved the production of 15 LCHs. This new deal represents the largest-ever order for HAL, with the helicopters being manufactured at the company’s plants in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka.
This deal is seen as a significant boost for India's defense manufacturing sector under the “Make in India” initiative, furthering the country’s push to strengthen its indigenous defense capabilities. The deal comes on the heels of the Defense Acquisition Council’s approval for additional arms purchases, including upgraded engines for T-90 battle tanks and anti-submarine torpedoes for the Navy.
In addition, India’s Cabinet Committee on Security recently authorized an $823 million deal to acquire over 300 domestically-developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), further strengthening India’s military readiness in key defense sectors.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
