India’s defence capabilities just took a major leap forward. The LCH Prachand Helicopter—India’s first indigenous light combat chopper, designed specifically for high-altitude warfare—has officially entered full operational mode as of June 2025. With a mega production deal sealed, HELINA missile integration trials underway, and confirmed deployment in India’s most sensitive border zones, the Prachand is now central to India’s air combat doctrine.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know—from design specs and weapon loadouts to recent updates and deployment strategy—making this your one-stop source for understanding the future of India’s rotary-wing warfare.
What is the LCH Prachand Helicopter?
The LCH Prachand is a state-of-the-art, light attack helicopter developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is the only attack helicopter in the world capable of operating above 5,000 metres, making it ideal for missions in Siachen, Ladakh, and the Eastern Himalayas.
Its key operational roles include:
- Anti-armour strikes
- Close air support
- High-altitude reconnaissance
- Combat search and rescue (CSAR)
- Air defence suppression
Built for modern warfare, Prachand blends speed, firepower, agility, and survivability in one compact yet deadly package.
Design and Development Journey
Born out of operational needs identified during the Kargil War, the LCH Prachand is a product of years of dedicated research and refinement by HAL.
Highlights of its design evolution:
- Developed using lightweight composite materials
- Stealth shaping to reduce radar signature
- Armour-plated, crashworthy cockpit
- Self-sealing fuel tanks and IR-suppression systems
- Built for Himalayan terrain and extreme weather
This aircraft is a perfect example of Atmanirbhar Bharat in action—combat-ready, homegrown, and export-capable.
Powerful Weapon Systems and Combat-Ready Armament
The LCH Prachand comes equipped with a deadly mix of weapons, adaptable to various combat scenarios.
Its integrated weaponry includes:
- 20 mm M621 cannon on a flexible mount
- 70 mm FZ275 laser-guided rockets
- Mistral air-to-air missiles for aerial engagements
- HELINA / Dhruvastra anti-tank guided missiles (currently under final integration trials)
- Advanced electronic warfare (EW) suite
- Helmet-mounted sight and targeting systems
This combination ensures precision attacks against tanks, bunkers, enemy aircraft, and ground troops with high survivability.
Performance in the Skies
What truly sets the LCH Prachand apart is its performance in high-altitude conditions, where most helicopters struggle to survive.
Its battlefield performance includes:
- Maximum speed: 268 km/h
- Combat range: 355 km
- Endurance: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Rate of climb: 12 m/s
- Service ceiling: 6,500 m
Whether it’s quick-strike missions in the Himalayas or extended patrols along the western border, Prachand is built to deliver.
Operational Deployment in Strategic Regions
The LCH Prachand has already joined the ranks of India’s frontline units.
Deployment highlights:
- Commissioned into No. 143 Helicopter Unit (IAF) at Jodhpur Air Force Station
- The Indian Army is raising seven squadrons, each with ten helicopters
- Intended for high-threat areas like Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim
Its ability to operate in sub-zero temperatures and mountainous terrain gives India a critical edge over adversaries like China and Pakistan.
HAL Production Deal and Indigenous Milestone (June 2025)
In March 2025, HAL secured a record-breaking order for 156 LCH Prachand units:
- 66 for the Indian Air Force
- 90 for the Indian Army
- Contract value: ₹62,700 crore
- Delivery timeline: From 2028, at 30 units per year
- Manufacturing spread across HAL’s Bengaluru and Tumakuru units
- Over 250 Indian suppliers involved, generating 8,500+ skilled jobs
This makes the LCH Prachand one of India’s largest indigenous defence production programs.
Export Opportunities and International Pitch
HAL is actively positioning the LCH Prachand in the global market. Several countries have shown interest, especially in Southeast Asia.
Countries targeted for export:
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Sri Lanka
- Malaysia
The helicopter’s high-altitude versatility, low operational cost, and indigenous maintenance ecosystem make it attractive for foreign militaries seeking reliable combat platforms.
LCH Prachand vs Apache & Rudra: What Makes It Different
When compared to global competitors, the Prachand stands out in specific roles:
- Apache AH-64E: Heavier, US-made, costlier. Superior in heavy assault, but not optimised for high altitude.
- HAL Rudra: An armed utility helicopter, not a dedicated attack chopper.
- LCH Prachand: Cost-effective, altitude-specialised, built for Indian terrain, and indigenous to the core.
Unique Technologies That Make It a Stealthy Warrior
The Prachand is more than just firepower; it’s designed to survive and dominate modern airspace.
Technological advantages include:
- Stealth shaping with radar-absorbent materials
- Narrow fuselage and compact design for low radar visibility
- Night vision compatibility and EO/IR sensors
- Crash-worthy, armoured crew seating
- Infrared suppression for reduced heat signature
Together, these features enhance both its survivability and lethality.
Strategic Importance for Indian Defence
With rising tensions across India’s northern and western borders, Prachand’s role becomes even more critical.
Strategic advantages include:
- Immediate deployment readiness in Siachen and Arunachal
- Quick-reaction capability for border incursions
- Boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives
- Modernisation of Indian rotary-wing forces
Its inclusion strengthens India’s ability to respond swiftly to dynamic threats.
Conclusion: Why the LCH Prachand is India’s Future-Ready Combat Helicopter
From battlefield agility to indigenous innovation, the LCH Prachand Helicopter is not just another combat aircraft—it is the symbol of India’s 21st-century defence aspirations. With a large-scale production underway, full operational clearance, and export ambitions growing, the Prachand is primed to dominate the skies at every altitude.
Whether deployed in a Himalayan valley or an international defence expo, one thing is clear: Prachand is the future of Indian aerial warfare.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
1. What is the top speed of the LCH Prachand?
It can reach a top speed of 268 km/h, making it fast and agile in close-combat air missions.
2. What weapons are equipped on the Prachand?
It carries 20 mm cannons, Mistral AAMs, HELINA missiles, and 70 mm laser-guided rockets.
3. Can it operate in Siachen or Ladakh?
Yes, it’s designed for high-altitude combat, with a service ceiling of 6,500 metres.
4. Is the LCH Prachand being exported?
HAL is pitching the Prachand to countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
5. When will deliveries start for the bulk order?
The deliveries from HAL will begin in 2028, with a production rate of 30 helicopters per year.