Prachand: The Light Combat Helicopter

News Highlight

The indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force. 

Key Takeaway

• The multi ­role attack helicopter has been customised as per the requirements of the Indian armed forces to operate both in desert terrains and high altitude sectors.

What is the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) project?

• History:
  • The LCH project can be traced to the 1999 Kargil war when the armed forces felt the need for a dedicated platform capable of operating at high altitudes.
• The design and development:
  • In 2006, the government sanctioned the design and development of the LCH. 
  • The Indian Army joined the programme in 2013. 
  • It was designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). 
• Testing:
  • The ground run was first carried out in 2010, and the prototype ‘TD­1’ took its maiden flight in the same year.
  • It was declared ready for production in 2020.
• The main features of LCH:
  • Twin Shakti engines power it.
  • The helicopter can fly at a maximum speed of 288 kmph and has a combat radius of 500 km.
  • It can go up to a service ceiling of 21,000 feet, making it ideal to operate in Siachen.
  • It incorporates several stealth features, such as 
    • Reduced radar and infra­red signatures
    • Crash-worthy traits for improved survivability
    • Armoured­ protection systems 
    • Night attack capability
• The unique features:
  • The LCH is the only attack helicopter worldwide that can land and take off at an altitude of 5,000 metres (16,400 ft). 
  • It is also capable of firing a range of air­ to ­ground and air­ to ­air missiles.
• The significance:
  • The LCH helicopters can be deployed to 
    • Assume air defence
    • Anti-­tank roles in high altitude
    • Counter­ insurgency
    • Search and rescue operations
  • It can be deployed to perform 
    • Combat Searches and Rescue (CSAR)
    • Bunker-busting operations
    • Counter-insurgency operations in the jungle and urban areas
    • Support the ground forces

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

• About
  • The Company, which originated as Hindustan Aircraft Limited, was incorporated in 1940 in Bangalore by Shri Walchand Hirachand.
  • The HAL is an Indian state-owned aerospace and defence company headquartered in Bangalore.
• History:
  • In 1941, the Government of India became one of the shareholders in the Company and subsequently took over its management in 1942.
• Administration:
  • In 1951, Hindustan Aircraft Limited was placed under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.

Content Source: The hindu

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