India orders 156 HAL Prachand combat helicopters

 

The HAL Prachand attack helicopter. Photo c/o HAL.

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has finalized an order for 156 new Prachand attack helicopters from Indian aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).

Two contracts have been signed between the MoD and HAL totalling around IRs 62,000 crore (around US$7.3 billion), one each for 66 helicopters for the Indian Air Force (IAF), and another contract to supply 90 helicopters to the Indian Army.

This acquisition is part of modernization efforts by the Indian Armed Forces and is expected to increase the combat capability of both service branches, with deliveries expected to start within three years and continue for the next eight years.

The project also supports the “Make in India” initiative where indigenous defense systems are prioritized to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, while increasing technical capabilities, providing jobs, and allowing participation of Indian industries.

Among those local technology showcased in the Prachand attack helicopter is its Ardinen 1H1 Shakti turboshaft engines, which was co-developed by HAL with established French helicopter engine manufacturer Safran.

The new engine produces up to 1,032 kilowatts of power and was designed for the helicopters to operate beyond the altitude of 5,000 meters, ideal for the mountainous conditions in the country’s northern and northwestern borders with  China in the Himalayas, as well as with Pakistan in the Kashmir region.

The Prachand also uses indigenous munitions which include guns, anti-tank guided missiles, laser-guided and unguided rockets, and short range air-to-air missiles to engage other helicopters or drones.

Other equipment installed are a helmet-mounted display system, electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) turret, Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), and Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS).

Aside from the Prachand,  the Indian Air Force also operate the American AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from Boeing, while the Indian Army is also expected to receive the helicopters starting this year.

[1] Indian Press Information Bureau

[2] Reuters

[3] Vertical Magazine