Why in the News?

The Indian Army's Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand has conducted the first-ever day-and-night firing of 20 mm turret guns and 70 mm missiles.

About Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand':

• The LCH is the only assault helicopter in the world that has the ability to land and take off at 5,000 meters while carrying a sizable payload of fuel and weaponry.
• The helicopter features a frame and landing gear that are largely crash-proof, and it uses material that absorbs radar waves to reduce its radar signature.
• For protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) emergencies, a pressurised compartment is available.
• The helicopter is protected from enemy radars and infrared seekers of enemy missiles by a countermeasure dispensing mechanism.
• LCH is powered by two French-origin Shakti engines manufactured by the HAL.
• The helicopter will be equipped with Helina missiles, the air force version of which is called Dhruvastra.
• It is capable of combat duties such as enemy air defence destruction, counter-insurgency warfare, combat search and rescue, anti-tank, and counter-surface force operations.