In a major milestone for Indian Army, LCH Prachand conducts high-altitude firing

In what has been billed as a "historic milestone" for the Indian Army, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) HAL Prachand of the Army successfully conducted high-altitude firing.

Designed for precision in extreme terrains, Prachand’s performance reinforces India's capability in high-altitude operations, the IV Corps, or the Gajraj Corps, of the Indian Army said in a tweet.

Built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Prachand light combat helicopter is an attack helicopter that can track slow-moving aerial targets and conduct search and rescue missions.

This LCH can also perform anti-tank operations, and counter-insurgency operations and provide close air support apart from engaging in high-altitude warfare.

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The LCH was developed with a primary focus on engaging slow-moving aerial threats, including enemy helicopters and drones, and incorporates a Low Observable (LO) design, which minimises its visual, aural, radar, and infrared signatures. The two-seater aircraft, equipped with advanced weapons systems—70 mm rockets, a 20 mm turret gun, and helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missiles—and fitted with radar and laser warning receivers, can operate both as anti-infantry and anti-armour helicopter.

Nearly 45 per cent of the LCH's components are indigenously sourced, and plans are on to increase this to 55 per cent in future models. The aircraft was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in October 2022.