On March 28, 2025, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD), under the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” initiative, signed two contracts with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), also known as Prachand, along with training and associated equipment. The contracts have a total value of ₹62,700 crore (approximately $7.36 billion), excluding taxes. Of the total helicopters, 66 are intended for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and 90 for the Indian Army. The deliveries are scheduled to begin from the third year following contract signing and will be completed within five years, with approximately 30 helicopters delivered per year.
India; Army orders 156 Prachand attack helicopters from HAL