News Highlight
The induction of the indigenously designed and developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) adds a unique capability to the combat potential of the IAF.
Key Takeaway
- Light Combat Helicopter is a 5.5-tonne class dedicated combat helicopter designed and developed by state-owned aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs)
- History:
- It was conceptualised after the 1999 Kargil conflict when the need for such a dedicated platform capable of operating in high altitudes was felt.
- Manufacturing:
- The HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) is a multi-role attack helicopter designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- Technology:
- The LCH incorporates advanced technologies and stealth features for influential combat roles and is designed to carry out functions such as destruction of enemy air defence, search and rescue, counter surface force operations etc.
- Unique feature:
- The LCH is the only attack helicopter in the world that can take off and land at an altitude of 5,000 meters with a significant amount of weapons and fuel.
- It is also effective in temperatures ranging from minus 50 degrees Celsius in the mountains to 50 degrees Celsius in the desert.
- The significant features of LCH are:
- It is powered by two Shakti engines and has a maximum take-off weight of 5,800 kg.
- With a maximum speed of 268 km per hour, it has a range of 550 km and an operational ceiling of 6.5 km.
- Armed with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, LCH also has a 20 mm gun and 70 mm rockets.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- About:
- The Company which had its origin 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