New Delhi: Ahead of the 92nd raising day, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed to the defence ministry to buy 156 new fully indigenous Prachand Light Combat Helicopters. Under the proposed plan, the IAF will induct 66 of the new helicopters, while the remaining 90 will be acquired by the Indian Army.
Top government officials told Defence Watch that the proposal for acquiring these 156 choppers has been initiated by the Indian Air Force and is expected to be approved by the Ministry soon.
The Prachand helicopters, fully indigenous and designed to meet the specific requirements of the Indian armed forces, have already proven their mettle.
Fifteen of these formidable machines have been inducted into the services, demonstrating impressive capabilities in both desert terrains and high-altitude sectors.
The IAF and the Indian Army are keen to add more of these choppers to their fleet to bolster their preparedness along the borders with China and Pakistan, added the officials.
The proposal is expected to be approved soon and marks a major milestone in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence sector.
The Prachand Light Combat Helicopters were first inducted into the Air Force last year on October 3, and have since been extensively flown in the desert sector. The IAF, impressed with the chopper’s performance, has been conducting integrated exercises with the Army, ensuring readiness for any future conflicts.
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