New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has inked two contracts worth Rs 62,700 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Prachand.
According to the agreements, 66 LCHs will be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF), while 90 will be supplied to the Indian Army. These helicopters will play a crucial role in high-altitude warfare and provide a technological edge in modern combat scenarios.
Boost to Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
The delivery of these helicopters will begin in the third year and continue over a period of five years. The LCH, designed and developed in India, is capable of operating at altitudes above 5,000 meters, making it highly suitable for deployment in mountainous regions. The helicopter features advanced weaponry, high agility, and superior survivability, catering to the specific requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.
One of the key highlights of this deal is the significant emphasis on indigenous manufacturing. The project will achieve over 65% indigenous content, involving more than 250 domestic companies, primarily Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is expected to generate over 8,500 direct and indirect job opportunities, reinforcing the governmentโs commitment to the โAtmanirbhar Bharatโ vision.
Wet Leasing of Flight Refuelling Aircraft
In another crucial development, the MoD has signed a contract with Metrea Management for the wet leasing of one Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA). The KC-135 aircraft, to be provided within six months, will be used to train pilots of the IAF and the Indian Navy in air-to-air refuelling operations.
This marks the first-ever wet leasing of an FRA by the IAF, aimed at enhancing mid-air refuelling capabilities and extending the operational range of fighter jets.
Record-Breaking Defence Contracts in 2024-25
With the signing of these three contracts, the total number of agreements signed by the MoD in the financial year 2024-25 has reached an unprecedented 193, with a cumulative value exceeding Rs 2,09,050 crore. This represents the highest-ever procurement by the ministry, nearly double the previous record.
Of these, 177 contracts (92%) have been awarded to the domestic industry, amounting to Rs 1,68,922 crore (81% of the total). This underscores the governmentโs push towards self-reliance in defence production and its continued support for homegrown military technology.
The acquisition of LCH Prachand helicopters and FRA leasing are critical milestones in Indiaโs defence modernization program. These developments will not only bolster the countryโs aerial combat and operational readiness but also strengthen the domestic defence ecosystem, paving the way for future advancements in indigenous military technology.
