On March 28, 2025, the Ministry of Defense signed two contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) “Prachand,” along with training and associated equipment, valued at Rs.62,700 crore (excluding taxes). The first contract includes 66 LCHs for the Indian Air Force (IAF), while the second covers 90 LCHs for the Indian Army. Deliveries will begin in the third year and continue over five years, enhancing the armed forces’ combat capabilities at high altitudes.
LCH is India’s first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter, capable of operating at altitudes above 5,000 meters. With over 65% indigenous content planned, its production will involve 250 domestic companies, primarily MSMEs, generating over 8,500 direct and indirect jobs.
Additionally, the Ministry of Defense signed a contract with Metrea Management for the wet leasing of one Flight Refueling Aircraft (FRA) to provide air-to-air refueling training for IAF and Indian Navy pilots. Metrea will deliver the FRA (KC-135 aircraft) within six months, marking the first such wet lease by the IAF.
With these three contracts, the total number signed by the Ministry of Defense in 2024-25 has reached 193, with a record-high contract value exceeding Rs.2,09,050 crore—nearly double the previous highest. Of these, 177 contracts (92%) worth Rs.1,68,922 crore (81%) have been awarded to the domestic industry.
