Fri Mar 28 14:16:41 UTC 2025: ## India Approves Record Deal for 156 Indigenous Light Combat Helicopters

**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – The Indian government has approved a landmark ₹62,000 crore (approximately $7.5 billion USD) deal for the procurement of 156 indigenously built Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs), marking the largest-ever order for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) greenlit the acquisition, which will see 90 helicopters allocated to the Indian Army and 66 to the Indian Air Force. These advanced helicopters, also known as “Prachand,” will bolster military capabilities along the borders with China and Pakistan.

Manufactured at HAL facilities in Bengaluru and Tumkur, Karnataka, the LCH boasts unique capabilities, including the ability to operate at altitudes of 5,000 meters—a critical feature for high-altitude operations in regions like Siachen and eastern Ladakh. The helicopter is equipped to deploy a variety of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, and can effectively neutralize enemy air defenses.

This massive order represents a significant step forward for India’s “Make in India” initiative, promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It follows recent approvals for other major indigenous defence projects, including 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) with negotiations underway for 97 more, and 307 ATAGS howitzers, a deal expected to be finalized this week. The LCH deal, awarded to HAL last June, is expected to generate substantial employment and boost India’s aerospace ecosystem. The Indian Air Force is leading the joint procurement effort for the LCHs.

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