Prachand : Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)
Source : Indian Express
GS III : Science and Technology; GS III : Internal Security
What is discussed?
- About Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Prachand
Why in News ?
The Indian Air Force Monday formally inducted the indigenously developed multi-role Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Prachand which is suitable for operating in high-altitude battlefields, and capable of destroying enemy air defence and engaging in counter-insurgency operations.
Key Facts
- The first batch of 10 LCH four inducted into the IAF’s 143 Helicopter Unit at the Jodhpur Air Force Station.
Photo by Isaac Benhesed on Unsplash - The induction marks India becoming the seventh country to make attack helicopters.
- LCH is a result of the two-decade-long research and development.
- LCH is the only attack helicopter in the world that can fly and take off at an altitude of 5,000 metres.
India has been operating sub 3 ton category French-origin legacy helicopters, Chetak and Cheetah, made in India by the HAL.
About Prachand
- The LCH is a 5.5-tonne class dedicated combat helicopter designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
- LCH is powered by two French-origin Shakti engines manufactured by the HAL.
- As far as weapons systems are concerned, a 20 mm turret gun, 70 mm rockets and air-to-air missile systems are onboard.
- It can also counter slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs).
- Insurgency warfare, combat search and rescue, anti-tank, and operations against surface forces are just a few of the combat missions that LCH is capable of performing.
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