SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is riding high after receiving a Request for Proposal (RFP) from the Ministry of Defence for 156 indigenously built Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), a deal estimated at ?45,000 crore. But their sights are set even higher, as they anticipate an upcoming RFP for their Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) as well.
The LUH, a highly agile new-generation helicopter in the 3-tonne class, has garnered significant interest from the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force). These services are looking to replace their ageing fleet of Chetak and Cheetah helicopters with the domestically produced LUH.
While the LUH is not yet fully certified, critical onboard systems are currently undergoing testing. HAL remains optimistic that certification will be achieved within the next 6 months, paving the way for a full-fledged order. This certification is crucial for the LUH to assume its role as the successor to the Chetak and Cheetah fleet, with a combined strength estimated at around 400 helicopters.
HAL is confident in its production capabilities, targeting a production run of 30 LUHs per year. Securing an RFP and subsequent order would significantly boost their helicopter production efforts.
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