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This article was generated using artificial intelligence (LMStudio (gemma-3-12b-it)) on 2025-04-04T11:17:31.635930. The original article can be found at https://thedefensepost.com/2025/03/29/india-buys-homemade-helicopters/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=india-buys-homemade-helicopters.
The Indian government has finalized a contract worth approximately $7.3 billion to acquire 156 Prachand light combat helicopters for both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army. This procurement represents a significant step forward in India’s efforts to bolster its domestic defense industry and reduce reliance on foreign military suppliers.
The Prachand helicopter is notable as being the nation’s first domestically designed and developed combat rotorcraft. Production will take place at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), within a newly established facility considered the country’s largest helicopter production plant. This factory was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2023.
According to statements released by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the agreement is intended to substantially enhance India’s military capabilities and contribute to its self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing. He characterized the deal as a milestone achievement for the “Make in India” initiative, a government program promoting local production.
The contracts for the acquisition were formally signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, a state-owned aerospace and defense company. The agreement signifies a considerable investment in indigenous defense production and is expected to generate economic benefits within India’s manufacturing sector.
Original author: Staff Writer With AFP