Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Gets Rs 50,000 Crore Tender for Combat Helicopters

June 18, 2024

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a well-known Indian state-owned aerospace and defense company, was recently given a unique contract worth about Rs 50,000 crore by the UK Ministry of Defence. This is the biggest single order for helicopters that has ever been given to an Indian company. The money will be used to buy Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), also known as “Prachand.”

Procurement and Contractual Details

This tender, which was handled through the Single Vendor Contract (SVC) method, is only going to HAL. The company is now going to make a techno-commercial bid, which will be talked over with the defense minister until it is agreed upon.

Specifications of the LCH

During test flights in Ladakh, the Prachand helicopters, which were designed to work well in the Indian terrain, showed how well they could handle high levels. The fact that these choppers can fly at high altitudes and have advanced weapons for battle means they will be useful in many situations. Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defense (DEAD), and Counter Insurgency (CI) are some of these. It will also take action against slow-moving planes and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), helping out in all kinds of weather and terrain.

Strategic Importance and Future Impact

The LCH is meant to be India’s main combat helicopter for the next thirty to forty years. It increases the Indian military’s tactical capabilities while lowering its reliance on combat helicopters from other countries. With an initial local content value of over 55 percent and room for growth, the helicopter could also be exported in the future.

Previous Developments and Economic Implications

Before this big deal, in 2022, the government gave HAL an order for 15 LCH units worth Rs 3,887 Crore, which included money for building up infrastructure. This action shows that India is becoming more determined to improve its defense infrastructure and aerospace powers.

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