Light Combat Helicopter Prachand

02 Nov 2023 Light Combat Helicopter Prachand

This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the topic details “Light Combat Helicopter Prachand”. This topic has relevance in the “Security” section of the UPSC CSE exam.

For Prelims:

What is Light Combat Helicopter Prachand? What are its features? 

For Mains:

GS2:  Security

Why in the news?

The Indian Army’s Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), known as ‘Prachand’, successfully conducted rocket firing on Monday, both during the day and at night. 

Light Combat Helicopter Prachand

• The LCH Prachand is India’s first indigenous multi-role combat helicopter. It is designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• The helicopter features modern stealth characteristics, strong armour protection, and powerful night attack capabilities. It has advanced navigation systems, close combat guns, and effective air-to-air missiles.
• The LCH Prachand is suitable for high-altitude operations and accurate strikes on targets located at elevated positions.
• It holds the distinction of being the only attack helicopter in the world capable of landing and taking off at altitudes of 5,000 meters while carrying significant weapons and fuel payload.
• It is powered by the Shakti Engine, which is a collaborative effort between HAL and France’s Safran, ensuring top-notch performance.
• LCH Prachand received operational clearance in 2017, highlighting its readiness for military service.
• Performance Specifications
  • Capable of flying at a maximum speed of 288 kmph.
  • With a combat radius of 500 km, it can reach a service ceiling of 21,000 feet.
• The LCH Prachand can carry out an array of activities, including Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), Destruction of Enemy Air Defence (DEAD), operations against slow-moving aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs), high-altitude bunker busting operations, counter-insurgency missions in jungle and urban environments, and providing crucial support to ground forces.
• It will be equipped with Helina missiles, with the Air Force version named Dhruvastra.

The LCH Prachand stands as a remarkable achievement in Indian aeronautics, designed to meet the diverse needs of the armed forces across a range of challenging terrains and operational scenarios. Its cutting-edge features, indigenous development, and versatile capabilities make it a key asset in India’s military arsenal.

Sources:  Army’s LCH Prachand carries out inaugural firing of 70mm rocket – The Economic Times (indiatimes.com)

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Gaurav N