HAL Prachand
LCH
The only attack helicopter that can arm and fight at 5,000 m.
Operated by Indian Air Force and Indian Army.
About the Prachand
The HAL Prachand is an Indian multi-role light attack helicopter designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under Project Light Combat Helicopter (LCH). It has been ordered by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army's Aviation Corps (AAC). On 3 October 2022, the LCH was formally inducted into the IAF and was officially named "Prachand".
Service history
The Kargil conflict exposed a gap: no Indian attack helicopter could operate effectively at the altitudes where the fighting happened. HAL's answer, developed from the Dhruv dynamics, landed a weapons load at 5,000 m — a demonstration no other attack helicopter has matched. Inducted in 2022 and named Prachand, 'fierce', with 156 more ordered in 2025.
Combat edge
Lands and takes off armed at 5,000 m
Narrow, stealth-shaped fuselage with crashworthy structure
Helmet-mounted targeting with 20mm turret gun
Derived from the indigenous Dhruv dynamics
Related platforms
HAL Rudra
Armed version of the HAL Dhruv utility helicopter which is designed and produced by the Indian.
Boeing AH-64 Apache
American twin-turboshaft attack helicopter with a tailwheel-type landing gear and a tandem cockpit.
Mil Mi-35
Large helicopter gunship, attack helicopter and low-capacity troop transport with room for eight.