Indigenous attack helicopter ready for first flight

India’s indigenously developed attack helicopter may embark on its first flight this month after its first ground run on Feb 4 were satisfactory.

It is reported that the maiden flight would be conducted after few more trial runs are conducted to fine tune the small issues still persisting with the Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) developed chopper. The maiden flight would be carried out using a prototype (LCH TD-1). The TD-1 will be a non-armed platform, and the test-flight will only be conducted to validate principle airframe, aerodynamics, manoeuvrability and air-worthiness parameters.

Developed on the lines of the existing Advanced Light Helicopter (LCH) Dhruv, the LCH is powered by Shakti engines, jointly developed by HAL and Turbomeca of France. It can be fitted with anti-tank missiles, air-to-air missiles and electronic warfare equipment. It will perform anti-tank and counter insurgency roles, as well as scout duties, escort to heli-borne operations and support for combat SAR operations. Armament includes a chin mounted twin barrel 20mm cannon, rockets, air-to-surface and air- to-air missiles.

HAL is aiming to obtain the initial operating clearance and push for its induction by 2011. The Indian military is expected to procure 200 LCHs. The LCH will have a glass cockpit with multi-function displays, a target acquisition and designation system with FLIR, laser rangefinder and laser designator. Weapons will be aimed with a helmet mounted sight and there will be an electronic warfare suite with radar warning receiver, laser warning receiver and a missile approach warning system.

The plan to develop an indigenous LCH was sanctioned in October 2006 by the government. As per the initial blueprint, US$24 million was allocated to HAL to develop two prototypes of the LCH by 2008 and its service entry in 2012.

The LCH is expected to fill vital gaps in India's security as the armed forces lack a helicopter gunship which can operate in extreme high altitude above 9,000 feet. The IAF has embarked on a major modernization plan of its helicopter fleet comprising of the ageing Russian Mi-17, Mi-8 and Mi-35 gunships.

As part of its long term up gradation blueprint, the IAF is looking to acquire 197 Light Utility Helicopter from the international market and another 187 is to be developed by HAL along with a foreign partner, which is yet to be finalised. In addition to this, the IAF has projected a requirement of another 350 Medium-Lift Helicopters.

The choppers are the main stay of logistical operations of the three wings of the armed forces. They have multiple utilities ranging from rescue operations, carrying relief material, ferrying soldiers and combat, as seen during the Kargil war, when Mi-17 was deployed.