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| {{Short description|Indian combat helicopter}}
| | #REDIRECT [[HAL Prachand]] |
| {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2020}}
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| {{Use Indian English|date = February 2019}}
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| <!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout, and guidelines. -->
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| {|{{Infobox aircraft begin
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| | name = Light Combat Helicopter
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| | image = IAF LCH Induction 1.jpg
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| | caption = An Indian Air Force HAL Light Combat Helicopter, November 2021
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| }}{{Infobox aircraft type
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| | type = [[Attack helicopter]]
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| | national origin = India
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| | manufacturer = [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]]
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| | designer = <!-- only appropriate for individuals, not for project leaders or a company or corporation -->
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| | design group = Rotary Wing Research and Design Center<ref>{{cite news |title=Rotary Wing |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Rotary%20Wing/M__326 |access-date=9 October 2021 |agency=Hindustan Aeronautics Limited}}</ref>
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| | first flight = 29 March 2010
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| | introduced = 2021
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| | retired =
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| | status = Limited series production
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| | primary user = [[Indian Army]]
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| | more users = [[Indian Air Force]]
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| | produced = 2010–present
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| | number built = 8 (4 TD, 4 LSP)<ref>https://idrw.org/iaf-gets-3-lch-army-1-but-hal-yet-to-get-contract/</ref>
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| | developed from = [[HAL Dhruv]]
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| | variants with their own articles =
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| }}
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| |}
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| The '''HAL Light Combat Helicopter''' ('''LCH''') is an Indian multi-role [[attack helicopter]] designed and manufactured by the [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] (HAL). The LCH has been ordered by the [[Indian Air Force]] and the [[Indian Army]]. Its [[flight ceiling]] is the highest among all attack helicopters.<ref name= "cutting teeth" />
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| The impetus for the development of the LCH came in the form of the [[Kargil War]], a conflict fought between [[India]] and neighbouring [[Pakistan]] in 1999, which revealed the Indian armed forces lacked a suitable armed rotorcraft capable of operating unrestricted in the high-altitude theatre. Accordingly, both HAL and the Indian armed forces commenced exploratory efforts towards the conceptualisation of a combat helicopter to perform in this role. During 2006, the company announced that it had launched a development programme to produce such a rotorcraft, referred to simply as the Light Combat Helicopter. Originally, the LCH was anticipated to attain [[initial operating capability]] (IOC) by December 2010, however development of the type was protracted and subject to several delays, some of which having been attributed to suppliers.
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| The LCH drew extensively on an earlier indigenous helicopter developed and manufactured by HAL, the [[HAL Dhruv|Dhruv]]; using this rotorcraft as a starting point has been attributed as significantly reducing the cost of the programme. On 29 March 2010, the first LCH prototype performed its [[maiden flight]]. An extensive test programme, involving a total of four prototypes, was conducted. During the course of these tests, the LCH gained the distinction of being the first attack helicopter to land in [[Siachen]], having repeatedly landed at several high altitude helipads, some of which being as high as 13,600 feet (4145 meters) to 15,800 feet (4815 meters). During mid-2016, the LCH was recognised as having completed its performance trials, paving way for the certification of its basic configuration. On 26 August 2017, limited series production of the LCH was formally inaugurated. On 19 November 2021, [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] formally handed over HAL Light Combat Helicopter to the Indian Air Force [[Air chief marshal (India)|Air Chief Marshal]] [[Vivek Ram Chaudhari]] clearing way for full scale induction.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Sarkar|first=Shankhyaneel|date=2021-11-19|title=PM Modi hands over Light Combat Helicopters to IAF chief|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-hands-over-light-combat-helicopters-to-iaf-chief-101637332112648.html|url-status=live|access-date=2021-11-20|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>
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| ==Development==
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| ===Origins===
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| [[File:Lch.jpg|thumb|LCH model on display at [[ILA Berlin Air Show]] 2008|alt=]]
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| During the late 1990s, [[India]] and neighboring nation [[Pakistan]] engaged in a brief but intensely-fought conflict commonly known as the [[Kargil War]]. This war, in which various elements of the Indian military were deployed, revealed operational shortcomings and areas for improvement, particularly the requirement for an [[attack helicopter]] that would be suitable for use within the high altitude climates in which some combat operations were fought along the north-western border region.<ref name = "dip sep 17"/><ref>McKenna, James T. [http://www.rotorandwing.com/2017/08/28/india-oks-light-combat-helicopter-production/ "India OKs Light Combat Helicopter Production."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002021822/http://www.rotorandwing.com/2017/08/28/india-oks-light-combat-helicopter-production/ |date=2 October 2017}} ''Rotor&Wing'', 28 August 2017.</ref> Accordingly, there was considerable interest in not only the acquisition of a suitable contemporary rotorcraft for the task (as well as to replace several aging types in Indian military service, such as the [[HAL Cheetah|Cheetah]] and [[HAL Chetak|Chetak]]), but for such an aircraft to be domestically developed and manufactured in India as well.
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| During early 2004, Indian aerospace manufacturer [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] (HAL) declared that the company was in the midst of discussions with the Indian armed forces on the prospects for a potential light combat helicopter derivative of the company's existing [[HAL Dhruv|Dhruv]] utility helicopter platform for the requirement.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-dawn-193658/ "Indian dawn."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075235/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-dawn-193658/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 8 February 2004.</ref> During late 2004, the Indian armed forces decided to curtail plans to order foreign-built attack helicopters in anticipation of a decision to formally select the tentative LCH.<ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-army-slashes-multi-role-helicopter-requiremen-190455/ "Indian army slashes multi-role helicopter requirement."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075238/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indian-army-slashes-multi-role-helicopter-requiremen-190455/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 23 November 2004.</ref> During 2006, HAL publicly announced that it had embarked upon the development of such an attack helicopter, which it referred to as the ''Light Combat Helicopter'' (LCH).<ref name = "dip sep 17"/> During late 2006, the Indian government decided to aid the fledgling programme via the issuing of external finance to support the design phase of the LCH's development, this was done as to aid the attack helicopter in conforming with the established requirements of the [[Indian Army]] and the [[Indian Air Force]].{{citation needed|date=April 2013}}
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| The LCH is a derivative of the HAL Dhruv, which had been developed during the 1990s and inducted into the Indian Armed Forces during the 2000s. Basing the LCH on an existing helicopter is expected to greatly reduce the associated costs of the programme, which was estimated to be roughly {{INRConvert|376|c|1}} in 2010.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zeenews.com/news628661.html |title=Indigenous combat chopper takes to skies |publisher=Zeenews.com |date=23 May 2010 |access-date=21 October 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100629152930/http://www.zeenews.com/news628661.html |archive-date=29 June 2010}}</ref> By 2010, the Indian Air Force was reportedly set to acquire 65 LCHs while the Indian Army was to also procure 114 LCHs for its own purposes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenceaviation.com/2010/04/indias-light-combat-helicopter.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=15 June 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110225130514/http://www.defenceaviation.com/2010/04/indias-light-combat-helicopter.html |archive-date=25 February 2011}} Light Combat Helicopter</ref>
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| Development of the LCH did not progress to schedule. On 21 June 2007, HAL chairman Ashok Baweja announced that and stated that the first prototype LCH was to conduct its [[maiden flight]] during October 2008, and stated that the company was currently "halfway through the design stage".<ref>Govindasamy, Siva. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hal-targets-lch-first-flight-in-oct-2008-215093/ "HAL targets LCH first flight in Oct 2008."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075127/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hal-targets-lch-first-flight-in-oct-2008-215093/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 21 June 2007.</ref> During November 2008, the company declared that, while the first flight had been postponed until March 2009, it was still working to secure [[initial operating capability]] (IOC) for the LCH by December 2010, while it was still anticipated that the type would receive its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) during 2011.<ref>Govindasamy, Siva. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-delays-lch-first-flight-to-march-2009-319107/ "India delays LCH first flight to March 2009."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001074646/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/india-delays-lch-first-flight-to-march-2009-319107/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 24 November 2008.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-11-23/india/27904413_1_lch-light-combat-helicopter-operational-clearance |title=Indigenous attack chopper to fly in March |access-date=6 February 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |work=[[The Times of India]] |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> During February 2009, Baweja announced another six-month delay to the development timetable, he also attributed some of the setbacks in the programme as having been a result of HAL's suppliers failing to deliver necessary tooling on time.<ref>Govindasamy, Siva. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aero-india-light-combat-helicopter-hit-by-six-month-322526/ "AERO INDIA: Light Combat Helicopter hit by six-month delay."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075047/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aero-india-light-combat-helicopter-hit-by-six-month-322526/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 13 February 2009.</ref>
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| ===Prototype and testing===
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| [[File:The first prototype of HAL Light Combat Helicopter with tandem crew seating took to the skies on April 5, 2010.jpg|thumb|First prototype of HAL Light Combat Helicopter with tandem crew seating arrangement undergoing engine start on 5 April 2010|251x251px|left]]
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| During late January 2010, Nayak stated that the LCH had successfully completed initial ground tests and was now ready to fly; the first flight was anticipated to occur during February.<ref>Rao, Radhakrishna. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hals-delayed-light-combat-helicopter-to-fly-in-febr-337814/ "HAL's delayed light combat helicopter to fly in February."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001075215/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hals-delayed-light-combat-helicopter-to-fly-in-febr-337814/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 29 January 2010.</ref> On 4 February 2010, the first LCH prototype completed its first powered ground run.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_indigenous-attack-copter-ready-for-first-flight_1344742 |title=Indigenous attack copter ready for first flight – India – DNA |publisher=Dnaindia.com |date=8 February 2010 |access-date=21 October 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100404185607/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_indigenous-attack-copter-ready-for-first-flight_1344742 |archive-date=4 April 2010}}</ref><ref>[http://www.mynews.in/News/HAL_to_flight_test_LCH_prototype_next_month_N36065.html HAL to flight test LCH prototype next month] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301204753/http://www.mynews.in/News/HAL_to_flight_test_LCH_prototype_next_month_N36065.html |date=1 March 2012}}</ref> On 29 March 2010, the maiden flight of the LCH was conducted by the type's first LCH Technology Demonstrator (TD-1). It flew a 20-minute flight from HAL's Helicopter Complex at [[Bengaluru]], during which the rotorcraft carried out low speed, low altitude checks on the systems on board. Following the completion of the flight, the crew reported that the performance of the helicopter and systems were satisfactory.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/mar/31/slide-show-1-indias-attack-helicopter-takes-first-flight.htm#contentTopM |title=India's attack helicopter takes first flight |publisher= Rediff.com News |date=31 March 2010 |access-date=2010-10-21 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110212000854/http://news.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/mar/31/slide-show-1-indias-attack-helicopter-takes-first-flight.htm#contentTopM |archive-date=12 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/india%5Cs-light-combat-copter-makes-first-flight/390258/ |title=India's Light Combat copter makes first flight |publisher=Business-standard.com |date=31 March 2010 |access-date=2010-10-21 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100404022628/http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/india/s-light-combat-copter-makes-first-flight/390258/ |archive-date=4 April 2010}}</ref>
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| On 23 May 2010, following the successful completion of the third test flight of the LCH prototype; it was deemed to have fulfilled the desired parameters and thus enabled further armed tests to proceed. The second LCH prototype (TD-2) differed considerably from its predecessor, being fitted with armaments and featuring a substantial reduction in weight; it was publicly unveiled at Aero India 2011 during February 2011. Speaking at the event, Nayak stated that the programme had exceeded human and payload requirements mandated by IAF for the development.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-07-25/news/29812484_1_light-combat-helicopter-lch-prototype |work=The Times of India |title=India flies second high altitude Light Combat Helicopter prototype |date=n.d. |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiastrategic.in/light_combat_helicopter01.htm |title=..:: India Strategic ::.. India flies second LCH |access-date=6 February 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150316232129/http://indiastrategic.in/light_combat_helicopter01.htm |archive-date=16 March 2015}}</ref> On 28 June 2011, TD-2 performed its first flight, allowing it to join the test programme.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defenceaviation.com/2011/06/indian-light-combat-helicopter-td-2-successfully-tested-by-hal.html |title=Indian Light Combat Helicopter TD-2 successfully tested by HAL |access-date=28 June 2011 |date=28 June 2011 |work=Defence Aviation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110705053929/http://www.defenceaviation.com/2011/06/indian-light-combat-helicopter-td-2-successfully-tested-by-hal.html |archive-date=5 July 2011}}</ref>
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| On 1 July 2012, the LCH began a series of trials near [[Chennai]]; among other elements, the onboard air speed measurement system was evaluated and various component stresses were measured.<ref name="dn1317">{{cite web |url=http://defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=1317 |title=LCH Undergoes Sea Level Trials |publisher=Defence News |access-date=6 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> Between late June and early July 2012, the second prototype, TD-2, was involved in a series of sea level trials. These trials covered flight performance, the measurement of loads, and the rotorcraft's handling qualities.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hal-india.com/MSM/VOL-5_MSM-94.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=26 September 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116061900/http://hal-india.com/MSM/VOL-5_MSM-94.pdf |archive-date=16 January 2013}}</ref>
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| [[File:Armed HAL Light Combat Helicopter.jpg|thumb|LCH armed with [[FZ275 LGR]] rockets and [[Mistral (missile)|Mistral]] missile.]]
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| During mid-2012, the third LCH prototype, which was claimed to be significantly lighter than either of its predecessors as well as incorporating various other improvements, was reportedly set to be delivered.<ref name="dn1317" /> The third prototype, TD-3, ultimately performed its maiden flight on 12 November 2014 for a duration of 20 minutes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.aspx?get=new&id=pJj3ICfDg9U= |title=LCH TD3 makes a maiden flight |publisher=defencenews.in |access-date=6 February 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> Both TD3 and TD4 were extensively used during the test programme for the purpose of testing the rotorcraft's mission sensors and weapon systems, which involved a series of live-firing trials. Reportedly, a total of ₹ 126 crore (US$20.2 million) had been sanctioned for the development and structural build of the fourth prototype.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/rotorplus-hal-funded-lch-td-3-undergoes-first-flight-succes-1559566.html |title=rotor plus: hal funded lch fnded td-3 undergoes first flight successfully |publisher=oneindia.com |date=17 November 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141216221108/http://www.oneindia.com/india/rotorplus-hal-funded-lch-td-3-undergoes-first-flight-succes-1559566.html |archive-date=16 December 2014}}</ref>
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| During early 2015, a number of cold weather trials involving the third prototype (TD-3) were carried out at Air Force Station Leh. During these tests, engine start-up tests (performed using internal batteries after lengthy overnight exposure to the cold climate without special protective measures being applied) proved satisfactory at the temperatures as low as −18 °C at an altitude of 4.1 km. Several flights were also carried out to assess the rotorcraft's high altitude performance and low speed handling.<ref name="The Economic Times">{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2015-03-02/news/59684200_1_light-combat-helicopter-flight-trials-altitude |title=HAL's Light Combat Helicopter undergoes cold weather trials |work=The Economic Times|date=2 March 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> During the course of these tests, the LCH gained the distinction of being the first attack helicopter to land in [[Siachen]], having repeatedly landed at several high altitude helipads, some of which being as high as 13,600 feet to 15,800 feet.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/hal-completes-hot-high-altitude-trials-of-lch-at-leh/article7610924.ece |title=HAL completes hot, high altitude trials of LCH at Leh |first=Ani l|last=Urs |date=3 September 2015 |work=thehindubusinessline.com |access-date=25 July 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827222142/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/hal-completes-hot-high-altitude-trials-of-lch-at-leh/article7610924.ece |archive-date=27 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/lch-becomes-first-attack-helicopter-to-land-at-siachen-1857693.html |title=LCH becomes first attack helicopter to land at Siachen |work=oneindia.com |access-date=25 July 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818040559/http://www.oneindia.com/india/lch-becomes-first-attack-helicopter-to-land-at-siachen-1857693.html |archive-date=18 August 2016}}</ref>
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| During June 2015, the LCH successfully completed hot weather flight trials at [[Jodhpur]], during which the type was exposed to temperatures ranging from 39 to 42 °C. The flight testing reportedly covered 'temperature survey of engine bay and hydraulic system', 'assessment of performance', 'handling qualities and loads' at different 'all up weights', 'low speed handling' and 'height-velocity diagram establishment'.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/Light-Combat-Helicopter-completes-hot-weather-flight-trials/articleshow/47828340.cms |title=Light Combat Helicopter completes hot weather flight trials |work=Times of India|date=26 June 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160210135242/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Bengaluru/Light-Combat-Helicopter-completes-hot-weather-flight-trials/articleshow/47828340.cms |archive-date=10 February 2016}}</ref>
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| On 1 December 2015, LCH TD4 completed its first flight. By March 2016, the LCH had reportedly completed basic performance flight testing and outstation trials, including a number of live-fire tests involving prototype TD-3 firing 70 mm rockets in its weaponized configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hals-lch-passes-rocket-trials-will-participate-in-iron-fist-exercise/articleshow/51390574.cms |title=HAL's LCH passes rocket trials; will participate in 'Iron Fist' exercise |website=The Economic Times |date= 14 March 2016 |access-date= 6 April 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420041945/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/hals-lch-passes-rocket-trials-will-participate-in-iron-fist-exercise/articleshow/51390574.cms |archive-date=20 April 2016}}</ref> By mid-2016, certification firing trials had commenced, these included tests of the integration of its mission sensors, such as the electro-optical system, helmet pointing system, and of the various armaments – air-to-air missiles, turret gun and rockets – that the type can deploy.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/strike/2016/05/10/india-conduct-lch-weapons-trials/84175400/ |title=india-conduct-lch-weapons-trials |website=Defense News |date= 10 May 2016 |access-date=21 October 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref>
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| During mid-2016, the LCH was recognised as having completed its performance trials, paving way for the certification of its basic configuration; a letter confirming this status was hand-delivered to HAL by CEMILAC in the presence of the Indian Defence Minister on 16 October 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/hals-light-combat-helicopter-catches-eyes-of-africas-countries-5-special-facts-about-the-made-in-india-lch/258501/ |title = HAL's Light Combat Helicopter catches eyes of African countries: 5 special facts about the made-in-India LCH |first = Smriti |last = Jain |publisher = Financial Express |access-date=27 May 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160820190748/http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/hals-light-combat-helicopter-catches-eyes-of-africas-countries-5-special-facts-about-the-made-in-india-lch/258501/ |archive-date=20 August 2016}}</ref> On 26 August 2017, Defence Minister Arun Jaitley formally inaugurated full-scale production of the LCH.<ref name="dip sep 17">Gady, Franz-Stefan. [https://thediplomat.com/2017/09/india-kicks-off-production-of-light-combat-helicopter/ "India Kicks Off Production of Light Combat Helicopter."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906223522/https://thediplomat.com/2017/09/india-kicks-off-production-of-light-combat-helicopter/ |date=6 September 2017}} ''The Diplomat'', 1 September 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/arun-jaitley-inaugurates-manufacture-of-light-combat-helicopter-at-hal-117082600691_1.html "Arun Jaitley inaugurates manufacture of light combat helicopter at HAL."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827125345/http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/arun-jaitley-inaugurates-manufacture-of-light-combat-helicopter-at-hal-117082600691_1.html |date=27 August 2017}}. ''Business Standard''.</ref>
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| On 31 January 2018, LCH TD2 was flown with an Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) designed by HAL. The new system is expected to replace the previously imported Automatic Flight Control System.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Kumar|first=Chethan|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/light-combat-helicopter-flies-with-desi-auto-control-systems-claims-hal/articleshow/62728059.cms|title=Light combat helicopter flies with desi auto control systems, claims HAL|work=The Times of India|date=2018-01-31|access-date=2018-02-01|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180202121721/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/light-combat-helicopter-flies-with-desi-auto-control-systems-claims-hal/articleshow/62728059.cms|archive-date=2 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> It was reported that a radar is under development for LCH.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shukla |first1=Ajai |title=Light Combat Helicopter gets cheaper with crucial indigenous AFCS |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/light-combat-helicopter-gets-cheaper-with-crucial-indigenous-afcs-118013101673_1.html |work=Business Standard |date=1 February 2018 |access-date=18 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181031010724/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/light-combat-helicopter-gets-cheaper-with-crucial-indigenous-afcs-118013101673_1.html |archive-date=31 October 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>
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| [[File:The Minister for Defence after inaugurating the Light Combat Helicopter Final Assembly Hangar in February 2020.jpg|thumb|LCH Final Assembly Hangar inauguration in February 2020 by [[Minister of Defence (India)|Minister of Defence]] [[Rajnath Singh]].]]
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| On 17 January 2019, LCH completed weapons trials with the successful firing of [[Mistral (missile)|Mistral-2]] air-to-air missile at a flying target.<ref>{{cite news |title=HAL's Light Combat Helicopter Completes Weapon Trials |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/hindustan-aeronautics-ltds-light-combat-helicopter-completes-weapon-trails-1979103 |work=NDTV |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |date=17 January 2019 |access-date=17 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190119121428/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/hindustan-aeronautics-ltds-light-combat-helicopter-completes-weapon-trails-1979103 |archive-date=19 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=LCH fires Mistral-2 missile, inches close to induction |url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/01/17/lch-fires-mistral-missile-close-to-induction.html |work=OnManorama |date=17 January 2019 |language=en |access-date=18 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190117121005/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/01/17/lch-fires-mistral-missile-close-to-induction.html |archive-date=17 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> In the same day, HAL announced that the LCH is ready for operational service after completing the required weapon integration tests.<ref>https://www.janes.com/article/85800/india-s-hal-declares-lch-ready-for-operational-induction</ref>
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| On 21 February 2019, Thales announced that it was awarded a contract to supply 135 70 mm rockets for 15 LCHs alongside 18 Dhruvs.<ref>https://www.rotorandwing.com/2019/02/23/thales-supply-70-mm-rocket-launchers-indian-attack-helicopters/</ref>
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| === Production ===
| | {{Redirect category shell| |
| The LCH was declared ready for production in February 2020. HAL's Helicopter Division, based in Bengaluru, has established a dedicated hangar to accommodate the LCH assembly line.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/feb/27/indigenous-light-combat-helicopter-ready-for-operational-induction-hal-2109412.html|title=Indigenous Light Combat Helicopter ready for operational induction: HAL |website=The New Indian Express |access-date=28 February 2020}}</ref> During September 2020, the first LCH of the limited series production (LSP) batch had reportedly commenced ground-based testing.<ref>{{Cite web |last= Kumar |first=Chethan |date = 20 September 2020 |title=HAL rolls out 300th ALH; ground run of LCH done too |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/hal-rolls-out-300th-alh-ground-run-of-lch-done-too/articleshow/78382908.cms |access-date=10 October 2020 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref>
| | {{R from move}} |
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| A total of 162 LCHs are planned to be ordered as of 2020.<ref name="cutting teeth">{{Cite news |last=Shukla|first=Ajai |date=2020-08-13 |title=Hindustan Aeronautics' light combat chopper cutting its teeth in Ladakh |work=Business Standard India |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/defence/hindustan-aeronautics-light-combat-chopper-cutting-its-teeth-in-ladakh-120081300071_1.html |access-date=2020-08-14}}</ref> 15 Limited Series Production variants for Army and Air Force are being built at HAL and are scheduled to be delivered by March 2022. An additional hangar was set up in which reportedly is capable of achieving a peak production of 30 helicopters per year.<ref name="ETJAN21"/> On 22 July 2021, it was announced that HAL will deliver the first three LCHs to the Indian Air Force.<ref>https://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/news/defense-aviation-news/2021/july/7439-hindustan-aeronautics-set-to-deliver-first-batch-of-3-light-combat-helicopters-to-iaf.html</ref>
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| ==Design==
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| ===Overview ===
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| [[File:HAL LCH sortie undertaken by ACM RKS Bhaduria.jpg|thumb|LCH sortie undertaken by [[Air chief marshal (India)|Air Chief Marshal]] [[R. K. S. Bhadauria]]]]
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| The design and development of the HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) was done in-house, by the Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre (RWR&DC), an internal design office of HAL dedicated to the design of helicopters.<ref name= "RWRDC">{{Cite web|url= http://hal-india.co.in/Rotary%20Wing/M__326 |title= Rotary Wing |work = HAL |access-date=2020-02-10}}</ref>
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| The LCH is a multirole [[attack helicopter|combat helicopter]], designed to perform various attack profiles, including relatively high altitude flight.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indias-Light-Combat-Helicopter/3514/1/15.html |title=India's Light Combat Helicopter |work=Brahmand News |access-date=25 July 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160819114353/http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indias-Light-Combat-Helicopter/3514/1/15.html |archive-date=19 August 2016}}</ref>
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| Equipped with a two-person [[tandem]] cockpit to accommodate a pilot and co-pilot/gunner, it has been developed to perform both the [[infantry|anti-infantry]] and [[anti-armour]] missions.<ref name = "HAL LCH"/> In addition to these roles, the LCH is intended to be used for a variety of operational purposes, such as to perform [[air defence]] against slow-moving aerial targets, including both manned aircraft and [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s (UAVs), participation in [[counter-insurgency]] operations (COIN) and Counter Surface Force Operations (CSFO),<ref name="timesofindia.indiatimes.com"/> the [[Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses|destruction of enemy air defence operations]] and wider offensive use during [[urban warfare]] conditions, escort to special heliborne operations (SHBO), support of [[combat search and rescue]] (CSAR) operations, and armed aerial scouting duties.<ref name=bkpic>{{cite web |title=LCH |url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/media/4234-3/HAL+LCH+Information.jpg |publisher=bharat-rakshak |access-date=30 June 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802081918/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/media/4234-3/HAL%2BLCH%2BInformation.jpg |archive-date=2 August 2014}}</ref>
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| In terms of its basic configuration, the LCH possesses a relatively narrow fuselage and is equipped with stealth profiling, armour protection, and is equipped to conduct day-and-night combat operations. According to reports, the protective measures included in the rotorcraft includes a [[digital camouflage]] system, an [[infrared]] (IR) suppressor fitted to the engine exhaust, and an exterior covered by [[cant (architecture)|cant]]ed flat panels to minimise its [[radar cross-section]] (RCS).<ref name = "HAL LCH"/><ref name=DA>{{cite news |title=Indian Light Combat Helicopter TD-2 successfully tested by HAL |url=http://www.defenceaviation.com/2011/06/indian-light-combat-helicopter-td-2-successfully-tested-by-hal.html |access-date=30 July 2012 |newspaper=Defence Aviation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016231404/http://www.defenceaviation.com/2011/06/indian-light-combat-helicopter-td-2-successfully-tested-by-hal.html |archive-date=16 October 2012}}</ref> It is furnished with an integrated dynamic system, including a hingeless main rotor and [[Bearing (mechanical)|bearing]]-less tail rotor, which works in conjunction with an anti-resonance isolation system to dampen vibrations.<ref name = "HAL LCH"/> During Aero India 2011, HAL's Rotary Wing Research & Design Centre informed the press that the LCH is "probably the most agile design in the world because of its rotor".<ref name=AeroIndia>{{cite news |title=Aero India: HAL showcases new helicopter designs |url=http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/aero-india-hal-showcases-new-helicopter-/ |access-date=31 July 2012 |newspaper=SHEPHARD |date=10 February 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220125905/http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/aero-india-hal-showcases-new-helicopter-/ |archive-date=20 February 2015}}</ref>
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| The LCH had inherited many of its technical features from one of HAL's earlier indigenous rotorcraft, commonly known as the [[HAL Dhruv]]. Shared elements between the two helicopters include the power-plant used, both being powered by a pair of co-developed HAL/[[Turbomeca]] Shakti-1H1 derived from [[Safran Ardiden]] [[turboshaft]] engines, albeit fitted with infrared suppressors. The features that are unique to the rotorcraft includes its narrow fuselage, a crashworthy [[tricycle landing gear]] arrangement, crashworthy [[self-sealing fuel tank]]s, armour protection, and a low visibility profile; these design elements have been attributed as having resulted in a relatively lethal, agile and survivable rotorcraft.<ref name="The Economic Times"/> Atypically for a combat helicopter, it shall also be capable of high-altitude warfare (HAW), possessing an in-service operational ceiling of {{convert|6000|-|6500|m|ft}}.<ref name=AeroIndia/>
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| ===Avionics and armaments===
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| [[File:LCH TD2 Front.jpg|thumb|Head-on view of the LCH with underwing rocket pods mounted on its stub wings|left]]
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| The LCH is furnished with a [[glass cockpit]] which accommodates an Integrated Avionics and Display System (IADS) which used an array of multifunction displays in conjunction with the onboard [[target acquisition|target acquisition and designation]] (TADS) system.<ref name = "HAL LCH"/> A prominent element of the TADS system is the [[helmet mounted sight]] (HMS), which serves as the principal instrument for targeting and triggering the rotorcraft's armaments. The LCH is protected via an extensive [[electronic warfare]] suite which is provided by the [[South Africa]]n division of [[Saab Group]]; this suite comprises various defensive elements to guard against several different threats, these include a [[radar warning receiver]] (RWR), [[laser warning receiver]] (LWR) and a [[missile approach warning]] (MAW) system.<ref name = "dip sep 17"/>
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| The LCH is equipped with an integrated [[data link]], which enables the type to participate in [[network-centric operations]] by facilitating the transfer of mission data to other platforms, comprising both airborne and ground-based elements. This networking capable is said to facilitate operational cooperation and [[force multiplication]] practices.<ref name = "dip sep 17"/><ref name="timesofindia.indiatimes.com">{{cite web |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-05-24/bangalore/28317274_1_lch-light-combat-helicopter-pilot |title=Indigenous combat copter takes to skies |date=24 May 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |work=[[The Times of India]] |archive-date=11 April 2016}}</ref> The onboard sensor suite is Elbit CoMPASS, produced locally by [[Bharat Electronics Limited]]. It consists of a [[Charge-coupled device#Color cameras|CCD camera]], a [[forward looking infrared]] (FLIR) imaging sensor, a [[laser rangefinder]] and a [[laser designator]] to facilitate target acquisition under all-weather conditions, including under nighttime conditions.<ref name="janes-23feb15"/> The series production variant will come with Integrated Architecture Display System (IADS) and Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) which are locally developed by HAL with private sector industries.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Jha|first=Manish Kumar|date=17 November 2021|title=With Certainty, LCA MK 2 Aircraft Is Slated To Enter Production By 2027 And AMCA By 2035--HAL CMD R. Madhavan|url=http://businessworld.inhttps//www.businessworld.in/article/With-Certainty-LCA-MK-2-Aircraft-Is-Slated-To-Enter-Production-By-2027-And-AMCA-By-2035-HAL-CMD-R-Madhavan-/17-11-2021-412423|url-status=live|access-date=2021-11-22|website=BW Businessworld|language=en}}</ref>
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| During 2006, it was announced that HAL had selected the [[M621 cannon]] to serve as the gun armament of the helicopter. The M621 cannon is incorporated in a [[Nexter]]-built THL 20 turret and integrated into a [[helmet-mounted sight]].<ref name="awst_20070101">"Missile Mirage", ''[[Aviation Week & Space Technology]]'', 1 January 2007.</ref> Various missiles can also be equipped upon the LCH; these include a maximum of four 70 mm anti-tank guided missiles – options are to include both foreign and Indian-built missiles, the latter in the form of the [[Nag (missile)|Helina]] anti-tank missile. In terms of [[air-to-air missile]]s, the LCH shall be capable of being armed with the [[Mistral (missile)|MBDA Mistral 2]] missile.<ref name = "dip sep 17"/> Payloads of [[rocket]]s are also available as offensive options for attacking targets with.<ref name = "HAL LCH"/>
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| ==Operational history==
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| [[File:HAL LCH Camo.jpg|thumb|Indian Air Force LCH flying at Leh]]
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| During November 2016, the Indian Ministry of Defense (MoD) authorised the purchase of an initial batch of 15 LCHs with 10 for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 5 for the Indian Army Aviation Corps (AAC), referred to as being a limited series production order.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=India Orders 83 New Fighter Jets, 15 Helicopter Gunships, and 464 Tanks |url=https://thediplomat.com/2016/11/india-orders-83-new-fighter-jets-15-helicopter-gunships-and-464-tanks/ |work=The Diplomat |date=9 November 2016 |access-date=18 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190218141838/https://thediplomat.com/2016/11/india-orders-83-new-fighter-jets-15-helicopter-gunships-and-464-tanks/ |archive-date=18 February 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Waldron, Greg. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hal-commences-lch-production-440643/ "HAL commences LCH production."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001121621/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/hal-commences-lch-production-440643/ |date=1 October 2017}} ''Flight International'', 29 August 2017.</ref> By mid-2017, the AAC had placed combined orders for 114 LCHs, while the IAF had a total of 65 LCHs on order. During early 2017, it was reported that the LCH's [[initial operating capability]] (IOC) with the Indian armed forces was expected to occur by 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/india/lch-inching-closer-to-ioc-first-lsp-chopper-by-2018-mathrubhumi-aeroindia2017--1.1725141 |title=LCH inching closer to IOC; first LSP chopper by 2018 |website=mathrubhumi.com |date= 12 February 2017 |access-date= 13 April 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170414001057/http://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/india/lch-inching-closer-to-ioc-first-lsp-chopper-by-2018-mathrubhumi-aeroindia2017--1.1725141 |archive-date=14 April 2017}}</ref> The AAC intended to deploy the indigenous LCH alongside the American-built [[Boeing AH-64 Apache]] attack helicopter.<ref>Kumar, Avinash. [http://www.businessinsider.in/Dusk-and-Dawn-of-the-Indian-Attack-Helicopters/articleshow/47747780.cms "Dusk and Dawn of the Indian Attack Helicopters."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001165528/http://www.businessinsider.in/Dusk-and-Dawn-of-the-Indian-Attack-Helicopters/articleshow/47747780.cms |date=1 October 2017}} ''Business Insider'', 20 June 2015.</ref>
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| Achieving export sales for the LCH has been a stated priority of both HAL and the Indian government. During mid-2016, a spokesperson for the Indian Defence Ministry stated the ministry was in the progress of holding discussions with several unidentified African nations on the topic of the LCH.<ref name=LCH2016>{{cite web |url =http://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/india-in-talks-with-african-countries-for-exporting-light-combat-helicopter/articleshow/52277819.cms |title =LCH for African countries |work =Economic Times|year =2016 |access-date =16 May 2016 |url-status =live |archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20160411224457/http://hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date =11 April 2016}}</ref><ref>Bhat, Aditya. [http://www.ibtimes.co.in/hals-light-combat-helicopter-advancing-towards-initial-operational-clearance-715872 "HAL's Light Combat Helicopter advancing towards Initial Operational Clearance."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001212900/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/hals-light-combat-helicopter-advancing-towards-initial-operational-clearance-715872 |date=1 October 2017}} ''International Business Times'', 13 February 2017.</ref>
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| On 7 August 2020, IAF's [[Vice Chief of the Air Staff (India)|Vice Chief]] [[Air Marshal]] [[Harjit Singh Arora]] flew an LCH from [[Thoise]] to [[Leh]] accompanied by a [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited|HAL]] test pilot in full mission configuration.<ref>{{Cite news |agency=Press Trust of India |date=7 August 2020 |title=Vice Chief Air Staff visits Ladakh; takes stock of IAF's preparedness |work=Business Standard India |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/vice-chief-air-staff-visits-ladakh-takes-stock-of-iaf-s-preparedness-120080701971_1.html}}</ref> On 12 August 2020, HAL announced that the Indian Air Force has deployed two LCH prototypes to [[Ladakh]] for conducting armed patrols from forward air bases.<ref name="LCH prototypes deployed">{{Cite web |date=12 August 2020 |title=Two HAL light combat choppers deployed in Ladakh |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-hal-light-combat-choppers-deployed-in-ladakh/story-mQ3MtbvOn9KoNQprZtZw6O.html |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |quote=The two LCHs deployed in Ladakh are prototypes}}</ref> In January 2021, government gave initial approval for the production of an initial batch of 15 LCHs, ten for the IAF and five for the AAC.<ref name="ETJAN21">{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=27 January 2021 |title=Indian forces to get local choppers even before formal contract |url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/indian-forces-to-get-local-choppers-even-before-formal-contract/articleshow/80469643.cms |newspaper=The Economic Times |location=New Delhi}}</ref>
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| ==Operators==
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| ;{{Flagu|India}}
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| *[[Indian Air Force]]: 2 prototypes deployed, 3 Limited Series Production handed over.<ref name="LCH prototypes deployed" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=IAF gets 3 LCH, Army 1, But HAL yet to get contract – Indian Defence Research Wing |url=https://idrw.org/iaf-gets-3-lch-army-1-but-hal-yet-to-get-contract/ |access-date=2021-09-06 |website=idrw.org}}</ref> Total 65 units planned.<ref name="cutting teeth"/>
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| *[[Indian Army]]: 1 Limited Series Production LCH handed over to the Army. Total 114 units planned.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2021-07-11 |title=HAL set to deliver first batch of 3 Light Combat Helicopters to IAF |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-set-to-deliver-first-batch-of-3-light-combat-helicopters-to-iaf/article35265426.ece |access-date=2021-07-13 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref><ref name=":0" />
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| ==Specifications==
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| [[File:Light Combat Helicopter first flight.jpg|thumb|Light Combat Helicopter on its first flight]]
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| {{Aircraft specs
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| |ref=Jane's All the World's Aircraft,<ref name="jawa-1617">{{cite book|editor1-last=Jackson|editor1-first=Paul|editor2-last=Peacock|editor2-first=Lindsay|editor3-last=Bushell|editor3-first=Susan|editor4-last=Willis|editor4-first=David|editor5-last=Winchester|editor5-first=Jim|title=IHS Jane's All the World's Aircraft: Development & Production|date=2016–2017|location=Couldson|isbn=978-0710631770|page=309|chapter=India}}</ref> Jane's Defence Weekly,<ref name="janes-23feb15">{{cite news|last1=Hardy|first1=James|last2=Bedi|first2=Rahul|title=Aero India 2015: Third LCH prototype breaks cover with new paintjob|url=http://www.janes.com/article/49257/aero-india-2015-third-lch-prototype-breaks-cover-with-new-paintjob|access-date=5 December 2017|work=Jane's Defence Weekly|date=23 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171205194557/http://www.janes.com/article/49257/aero-india-2015-third-lch-prototype-breaks-cover-with-new-paintjob|archive-date=5 December 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Bedi |first1=Rahul |title=Aero India 2019: Thales to supply rocket launchers for HAL combat helos |url=https://www.janes.com/article/86756/aero-india-2019-thales-to-supply-rocket-launchers-for-hal-combat-helos |work=Jane's Defence Weekly |issue=21 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190222124917/https://www.janes.com/article/86756/aero-india-2019-thales-to-supply-rocket-launchers-for-hal-combat-helos |archive-date=22 February 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''and'' HAL India<ref name = "HAL LCH">{{cite web |url=http://www.hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |title=LCH |access-date=20 November 2017 |publisher=HAL India |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171120013444/http://www.hal-india.com/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |archive-date=20 November 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=LCH |url=https://hal-india.co.in/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 |website=Hindustan Aeronautics Limited |access-date=9 October 2021}}</ref>
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| |prime units?=met
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| <!-- General characteristics
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| -->
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| |genhide=
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| |crew=2
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| |capacity=
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| |length m=15.8
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| |length ft=
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| |length in=
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| |span m=4.60
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| |span ft=
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| |span in=
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| |span note=
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| |height m=4.70
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| |height ft=
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| |height in=
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| |empty weight kg=
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| |empty weight lb=
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| |gross weight kg=
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| |gross weight lb=
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| |max takeoff weight kg=5800
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| |max takeoff weight lb=
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| |more general=*'''Payload:''' {{cvt|700|kg|lb}} weapons
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| <!-- Powerplant
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| -->
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| |eng1 number=2
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| |eng1 name=[[HAL/Turbomeca Shakti]]-1H1<ref>{{cite web |title=Ardiden 1H1 Shakti, the engine of the Indian Dhruv helicopter |url=https://www.safran-group.com/products-services/ardiden-1h1-shakti-engine-indian-dhruv-helicopter |publisher=Safran |access-date=9 October 2021}}</ref>
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| |eng1 type=[[turboshaft]]
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| |eng1 kw=
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| |eng1 shp=1384
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| |eng1 note=
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| |power original=
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| |thrust original=
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| |more power=
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| |rot number=1
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| |rot dia m=13.2
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| |rot dia ft=
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| |rot dia in=
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| |rot area sqm=
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| |rot area sqft=
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| <!-- Performance
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| -->
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| |perfhide=
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| |max speed kmh=268
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| |max speed mph=
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| |max speed kts=
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| |never exceed speed kmh=
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| |never exceed speed mph=
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| |never exceed speed kts=178
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| |range km=550
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| |range miles=
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| |range nmi=
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| |range note=with weapons
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| |endurance=3 hours 10 minutes
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| |ceiling m=6500
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| |ceiling ft=
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| |climb rate ms=12
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| |climb rate ftmin=
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| |lift to drag=
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| |disk loading kg/m2=
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| |disk loading lb/sqft=
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| |more performance=
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| <!-- Armament
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| -->
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| |guns=1 x 20 mm [[M621 cannon]] on [[Nexter]] THL-20 turret
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| |bombs=
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| |rockets=
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| |missiles=
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| |hardpoints=4
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| |hardpoint capacity=
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| |hardpoint rockets=<br/>
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| ***4 × 12 [[FZ275 LGR]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Hindustan Aeronautics Limited places order with Thales for 2.75-inch rocket launchers to equip Indian armed forces |url=https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/india/press-release/hindustan-aeronautics-limited-places-order-thales-275-inch-rocket-launchers |access-date=9 October 2021 |publisher=Thales |date=21 February 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=LCH (Light Combat Helicopter) |url=https://fz.be/lch-light-combat-helicopter |access-date=9 October 2021 |publisher=Forges de Zeebrugge}}</ref>
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| |hardpoint missiles=<br/>
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| ***[[Air-to-air missile]]s:
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| ****4 × 2 [[Mistral (missile)|Mistral]]<ref>{{cite news |last1=Siddiqui |first1=Huma |title=HAL’s Light Combat helicopter becomes India’s 1st to carry out air-to-air attack firing Mistral missile |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/hals-light-combat-helicopter-becomes-indias-1st-to-carry-out-air-to-air-attack-firing-mistral-missile/1446846/ |access-date=9 October 2021 |publisher=Financial Express |date=17 January 2019}}</ref>
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| *** [[Anti-tank guided missile]]
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| ****4 × 2 [[Nag (missile)#HELINA / Dhruvastra|Dhruvastra]] (planned)
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| |hardpoint bombs=<br/>
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| *** [[Cluster munition]]
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| *** [[Unguided bomb]]
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| *** [[Grenade launcher]]
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| |hardpoint other=
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| |avionics=
| |
| *[[Elbit Systems|Elbit]] CoMPASS optoelectronic suite
| |
| *Missile approach warning system
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| *[[Saab Group|Saab]] radar and laser warning system
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| *Chaff and flare dispensers
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| }} | | }} |
|
| |
| ==See also==
| |
| {{portal|Aviation}}
| |
| {{aircontent
| |
| |see also=
| |
| |related=
| |
| * [[HAL Dhruv]]
| |
| * [[HAL Rudra]]
| |
| |similar aircraft=
| |
| * [[Agusta A129 Mangusta]]
| |
| ** [[TAI/AgustaWestland T129]]
| |
| * [[CAIC Z-10]]
| |
| * [[Denel Rooivalk]]
| |
| * [[Eurocopter Tiger]]
| |
| * [[Harbin Z-19]]
| |
| * [[Kamov Ka-50]]
| |
| |lists=
| |
| * [[List of rotorcraft]]
| |
| }}
| |
|
| |
| ==References==
| |
| {{Reflist}}
| |
|
| |
| ==External links==
| |
| {{Commons category|HAL Light Combat Helicopter}}
| |
| * [https://hal-india.co.in/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=63 HAL LCH web page]
| |
| * [https://hal-india.co.in/Common/Uploads/ContentTemplate/302_Download_Light%20Combat%20Helicopter%20(LCH).pdf HAL Light Combat Helicopter brochure]
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|
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| {{HAL aircraft}}
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|
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| {{DEFAULTSORT:Hal Light Combat Helicopter}}
| |
| [[Category:Indian military aircraft procurement programs]]
| |
| [[Category:HAL aircraft]]
| |
| [[Category:Attack helicopters]]
| |
| [[Category:2010s Indian helicopters]]
| |
| [[Category:2010s Indian attack aircraft]]
| |
| [[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
| |
| [[Category:Aircraft first flown in 2010]]
| |
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