HAL light combat helicopter deployed in Ladakh against China

Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Harjit Singh Arora PVSM AVSM ADC on 07 Aug 2020 visited forward air bases in Ladakh sector of Western Air Command (WAC). Air Marshal Harjit Singh Arora is photographed along with the crew of Light Combat Helicopter during his visit.

Updated: 12 August 2020

“Two Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) have been deployed for operations at high altitude Leh sector at short notice, said a HAL statement.

“The Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Harjit Singh Arora took part in one such operation along with HAL test pilot, Wg Cdr (Retd), Subash P John recently by taking-off from high altitude location to a forward area for a simulated attack on a high altitude target. This was followed by a landing at one of the most treacherous helipads in the region. The LCH successfully demonstrated its quick deployment prowess to forward locations in extreme temperatures,” said the release.

The IAF and the Indian Army together need around 160 LCHs. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal for the initial batch of 15 LCHs. The IAF issued Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 Limited Series Production (LSP) helicopter (10 for IAF and 5 for Army) and HAL had submitted its response.

The technical evaluation and the price negotiations have been concluded and the order is expected shortly.  However, as a proactive measure, HAL has begun the production of LSPs in anticipation of orders at its Bengaluru facility.