CCS Okays Induction Of 156 Indigenous Combat Copters

The Ministry of Defence on Friday signed two contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Prachand, along with training and other associated equipment, worth 62,700 crore, excluding taxes.

- MAYANK SINGH @ New Delhi

The contract for the lease of the first Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA) was also firmed up. While the first contract is for supply of 66 LCHs to the Indian Air Force (IAF), the second is for procurement of 90 LCHs to the Indian Army.

"The supply of these helicopters shall commence from the third year and will be spread over the next five years. The contracts will enhance the Armed Forces' combat capability at high altitudes," the Ministry said in a statement.