Defence Ministry sends RFP to HAL for procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters
- In Reports
- 07:19 PM, Jun 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
Hindustan Aeronautics announced on Monday that the Defence Ministry has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 156 Light Combat Helicopters, aiming to bolster self-reliance in the defence sector.
The company's official statement confirmed that the Ministry of Defence has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters.
According to HAL's statement, out of the total 156 Light Combat Helicopters requested by the Defence Ministry, 90 will be acquired for the Indian Army (IA), with the remaining 66 designated for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, upon assuming office for the second consecutive term, reiterated the government's commitment to enhancing the nation's security infrastructure, with a primary emphasis on achieving self-sufficiency in defence production. He highlighted that the modernisation of the Armed Forces and the welfare of both serving and retired soldiers will remain top priorities under his leadership.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his second consecutive term, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to bolstering the nation's security infrastructure, placing a significant emphasis on achieving self-sufficiency in defence production. He underscored that the modernisation of the Armed Forces and the welfare of both serving and retired soldiers will remain paramount during his tenure.
According to statements released by HAL, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) possesses essential attributes such as agility, manoeuvrability, extended range, high-altitude performance, and all-weather combat capability. These features enable the LCH to fulfil various roles, including combat search and rescue (CSAR), destruction of enemy air defence (DEAD), and counter-insurgency (CI) operations.
The procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters, as per the Defence Ministry's Request for Proposal (RFP), allocates 90 units for the Indian Army and 66 for the Indian Air Force. This initiative is part of India's ongoing efforts to enhance its defence capabilities and bolster national security across diverse operational scenarios.
The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) is versatile and capable of conducting high-altitude bunker-busting operations, counter-insurgency missions in both jungle and urban settings, and providing support to ground forces. It is also effective against slow-moving aircraft and remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs) operated by adversaries.
The LCH incorporates advanced aviation technologies, including a glass cockpit and a composite airframe structure, which have been developed locally. These indigenised technologies enhance the helicopter's operational efficiency and contribute to India's efforts in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing and technology development.
Image source: India Today
Comments