Overview

• The Cabinet Committee on Security approved the Rs 62,000-crore ($7.3 billion) deal to acquire 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) for the Indian Army and Air Force.
• The helicopters, known as Prachand, are designed for high-altitude operations and will be deployed along India's borders with China and Pakistan.
• Manufacturing will take place at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's facilities in Bengaluru and Tumkur, with deliveries starting in three years and concluding over five years.
• Equipped with advanced weaponry, the LCH is the world's only attack helicopter capable of operating at altitudes of 5,000 meters, ideal for terrains like the Siachen Glacier and eastern Ladakh.
• This deal underscores India's broader push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives, reducing dependence on foreign imports.