Guwahati: The first batch of locally produced Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) will be added to the Indian Air Force’s inventory today at a ceremony in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, giving the IAF a significant boost in combat capability.
Rajnath Singh, the defence minister, will be present as the indigenous helicopters are accepted into the IAF. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, “The induction of these helicopters will be a big boost to the IAF’s combat prowess.”
The new helicopter joining the force can engage in aerial combat and will aid it in fending off armoured columns, drones, and slow-moving aircraft during battles. Rajnath Singh, who has played a significant role in advancing causes for troops to purchase indigenous platforms, will preside over the induction event.
The defense minister also attended the Cabinet Committee on Security meeting where it was decided to approve the procurement of 15 of these LCHs for the army and the air force. The IAF will receive 10 of the 15 limited series production helicopters, while the army will receive five. According to the officials, it can land and take off from a height of 5,000 metres while carrying fuel and weaponry.
To satisfy the needs of the military forces, the choppers have been flown extensively in Ladakh and the desert region. In the past three to four years, the IAF has added a number of helicopters to its fleet, including the Chinooks, Apache assault helicopters, and now LCHs.