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635: IAF’S WINGS OF INDIGENISATION: THE IAF-HAL SAGA

 

My Article was published in the Life of Soldier Journal on April 25.

 

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been in the spotlight for its recent achievements and challenges. The company has secured significant defence contracts, including a deal for LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets and a substantial agreement for Indigenous helicopters. HAL has also made strides in the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, enhancing India’s aerospace capabilities. However, the company has faced scrutiny over production delays and concerns raised by the Indian Air Force regarding aircraft availability.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been a stalwart in the pursuit of indigenisation, a strategic move to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers and bolster national security. Key initiatives include the induction of HAL’s Tejas fighter jets, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) development, and the procurement of indigenous helicopters like the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand. The IAF’s investments in indigenous UAVs, radars, and advanced weapon systems are a testament to its commitment to enhancing self-reliance. While challenges persist, a collaborative effort between the IAF, HAL, and private industry is pivotal in realising India’s vision of a robust and self-sufficient aerospace defence ecosystem.

 

India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence aviation has been long and complex, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) playing pivotal roles. Achievements, setbacks, and continued aspirations for indigenisation have marked the relationship between these two institutions. While HAL has been the backbone of India’s military aviation industry, the IAF has often raised concerns over delays, quality issues, and technological limitations. This article explores the evolution of this partnership, its challenges, and the way forward for India’s indigenous aerospace ambitions.

 

HAL was founded in 1940 as Hindustan Aircraft Limited and nationalised in 1964. Over the decades, it has been responsible for manufacturing, assembling, and maintaining various aircraft for the IAF, ranging from early license-built fighters to the Indigenous Tejas fighter jet. HAL has played a crucial role in India’s defence self-sufficiency by working on aircraft like the HF-24 Marut, Dhruv helicopters, and, more recently, the LCA Tejas and AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) projects.

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has always been a strong advocate for the development of indigenous defence production capability, a key result area for the IAF. The IAF has played a crucial role in creating an aerospace ecosystem in India, operating indigenously built aircraft and those built by HAL under licence production, which has given impetus to the indigenous industry in the past. The IAF’s support for indigenised inductions and projects is evident in its involvement in the following initiatives:

 

    • Induction of LCA (IOC, FOC, Mk I and Mk 1A) and support to LCA Mk II and AMCA.
    • Induction of Ajeet and HF-24 Marut ac in the past.
    • Induction of AEW&C ac and support to indigenous AWACS project.
    • Induction of indigenous helicopter ALH and support to LCH.
    • Induction of Trainer aircraft (Kiran Mk I and Mk II, HT-2, HPT & HTT-40 aircraft).
    • Support to the replacement of Avro aircraft through the make-in-India route.
    • Integration and operationalisation of Astra Air to Air Missile and Brahmos Air to surface missiles.
    • Integration of weapons like the New Generation Anti-tank Missile, Smart anti-airfield weapons, new generation anti-radiation missiles, and Glide bombs.

 

IAF’s Dependence on HAL. HAL’s contribution to the IAF has been significant, with aircraft like the MiG-21, Jaguar, Su-30MKI, and Hawk trainers being produced or assembled under license. However, the IAF has sometimes expressed concerns over HAL’s efficiency, particularly regarding production delays, maintenance backlogs, and a lack of cutting-edge technology. The slow pace of the LCA Tejas program and delays in upgrades of existing fleets have strained the relationship between the two.

 

Success Stories: HAL’s Contributions to IAF. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been the cornerstone of India’s military aviation industry, supporting the Indian Air Force (IAF) for over eight decades. From license-producing early-generation fighters to developing Indigenous aircraft and helicopters, HAL has made significant strides in enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence aviation. Despite facing challenges, its contributions have been instrumental in shaping the IAF’s combat capabilities, a fact that we, as a nation, should deeply appreciate and respect.

 

HAL’s association with the IAF began with the production of British-origin Hawker Tempest aircraft in the 1940s. However, its true contribution to India’s air power started in the 1960s when it began license manufacturing the MiG-21 under Soviet collaboration. The MiG-21 became the backbone of the IAF for decades, with HAL producing over 600 aircraft. These fighters played a crucial role in conflicts like the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the Kargil War (1999). During the same period, HAL made its first attempt at designing an indigenous fighter—the HF-24 Marut, India’s first home-grown jet.  The lessons learned from this project laid the foundation for future indigenous aircraft programs. In the 1980s, HAL was critical in assembling and maintaining the SEPECAT Jaguar, a deep-strike fighter that remains a vital part of the IAF’s fleet. HAL later upgraded the Jaguar under the DARIN modernisation programs, equipping it with modern avionics and weaponry.

 

Su-30MKI: The Backbone of the IAF. One of HAL’s biggest success stories has been the license production of the Su-30MKI, India’s premier air superiority fighter. Since the early 2000s, HAL has built over 270 Su-30MKIs, making them the most numerous and capable aircraft in the IAF’s fleet. The company has also integrated indigenous systems into the Su-30MKI, such as BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missiles, further enhancing its strike capability.

 

LCA Tejas: India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet. The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is a landmark achievement for HAL and India’s defence industry. After initial delays, Tejas was inducted into the IAF. The improved Tejas Mk1A, featuring advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and upgraded weapons, is expected to be inducted soon. Developing the Tejas Mk2, Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), and fifth-generation AMCA showcases HAL’s progress toward advanced indigenous fighters.

 

Indigenous Helicopters: ALH Dhruv, LCH, and LUH. HAL strengthened the IAF’s rotary-wing capabilities with the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its armed variant, Rudra. Another significant achievement is the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, designed for high-altitude operations in Ladakh and Siachen. HAL has also developed the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) to replace ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.

 

The Challenges

Despite HAL’s significant contributions to the Indian Air Force (IAF), several challenges continue to hinder their partnership, affecting operational readiness and modernisation efforts. One of the most pressing concerns is production delays, which have consistently impacted the induction of critical platforms. The slow pace of Tejas fighter production, delays in the upgrade program, and prolonged timelines for overhauls have led to capability gaps in the IAF. These setbacks have forced the IAF to rely on older aircraft, delaying modernisation. Another significant issue is quality control, with HAL facing criticism over the reliability of its manufactured and overhauled aircraft. The users have raised concerns about technical faults, maintenance inefficiencies, and accidents of some HAL-built platforms, leading to questions about overall workmanship and durability. HAL’s slow adoption of new technologies has also affected India’s ability to match global defence standards. Unlike leading aerospace firms, HAL struggles with R&D investments and innovation, leading to dependence on foreign suppliers for engines, avionics, and weapon systems.

 

The Way Ahead for HAL: Strengthening India’s Aerospace Future

It is time for HAL to leave behind past setbacks, tackle challenges, and move on with renewed determination. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) must adopt a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing innovation, investing in R&D, fostering collaborations, and streamlining production can make it a stronger, future-ready HAL that is ready to drive India’s aerospace future, ensuring self-reliance and global competitiveness in defence manufacturing.

Enhancing Production Efficiency. HAL needs to streamline its manufacturing and assembly processes to reduce production delays. Modern automation, digital manufacturing, and lean production techniques can significantly reduce production time. Strengthening supply chains and increasing outsourcing to private-sector firms will also boost production efficiency.

Strengthening Quality Control. HAL must revamp its quality assurance mechanisms to address users’ concerns. A stringent inspection and testing framework at every stage of aircraft manufacturing and overhaul processes will ensure higher reliability and safety. Implementing global best practices and learning from established aerospace giants can help improve production standards.

Investing in Advanced R&D. One of HAL’s most significant drawbacks is its slow pace of technological innovation. To bridge this gap, HAL must increase investments in indigenous research and development (R&D), particularly in engines, avionics, stealth technology, and composite materials. Stronger collaboration with DRDO, ISRO, and academic institutions can accelerate innovation in next-generation aircraft and air combat systems.

Strengthening the Private Sector Collaboration. Public-private partnerships will be key to HAL’s future success. Companies like Tata, L&T, and Mahindra Defence are emerging as strong players in the defence aviation sector. HAL must leverage these partnerships for joint development, co-production, and component outsourcing, improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Reforming Organisational and Management Structure. HAL must transition from a bureaucratic public-sector enterprise to a more agile, corporate-driven entity to compete globally. Introducing performance-based accountability, faster decision-making mechanisms, and strategic planning frameworks will enable HAL to operate more efficiently.

Commitment to Future Programs. HAL must stay committed to high-priority projects like the Tejas Mk II, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). These programs will define the future of Indian military aviation and ensure long-term self-reliance.

Focusing on Export Potential. HAL must actively market its aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs to international customers. The Tejas LCA, LCH Prachand, and Dhruv helicopters have attracted global interest. Expanding exports will generate revenue and establish India as a key defence exporter.

 

Conclusion

HAL stands at a crucial juncture and must evolve into a world-class defence aerospace manufacturer. By focusing on efficiency, innovation, private sector collaboration, and exports, HAL can not only strengthen the IAF but also contribute significantly to India’s goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

 

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491: PRACHAND: THE HIMALAYAN GRIFFIN

 

 

My Article published on the Chanakya Forum

 

In mid-June, news channels and strategic community circles were abuzz with the news that the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, had issued an RFP for the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (90 for the Indian Army and 66 for the Indian Air Force). LCH is the first indigenous Multi-Role Combat Helicopter designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). “Prachand” (which means “fierce” in Hindi), the name given to India’s LCH, reflects the helicopter’s aggressive and powerful capabilities. It stands out with its ground attack and aerial combat capability, setting it apart from other helicopters in the market. Other attack helicopters and armed helicopters (held in the Indian armed forces inventory) are severely limited in operating at high altitudes and are best suited for operations in lower terrains.

 

HAL has thus far manufactured 15 limited-series Prachand helicopters (10 for the IAF and 5 for the IA), already in service from 2021 onwards. The new procurement order will enhance the operational capability of the Indian defence forces and further boost India’s drive for self-reliance. Reviewing the aircraft (features, performance, capabilities, and roles) and the project (development, production capabilities, Indigenous content, etc.) will be worthwhile.

 

Development Project. The need for such a helicopter was felt by the Indian armed forces during the Kargil conflict in 1999 when they were required to dislodge intruding Pakistani forces entrenched at altitudes around 18,000 feet. HAL started developing the LCH in the early 2000s, unveiling its plan to build the LCH in 2006. The Indian government sanctioned the project in the same year. The first flight on a prototype on 29 March 2010 was followed by an extensive test programme on four prototypes. The LCH became the first attack helicopter to land in Siachen at altitudes as high as 15,800 feet (4,815 metres). The LCH received a certificate of basic configuration in October 2015 and achieved initial operational clearance in August 2017.

 

Induction. The LCH was developed to meet the requirements of the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army. In August 2017, limited-series production began for 15 aircraft. In January 2019, after completing all weapon integration tests, HAL declared the LCH ready for operational induction. On November 19, 2021, the LCH was formally handed over to IAF, starting the process of full-scale induction. On October 03, 2022, the LCH was formally inducted into the IAF and was officially named ‘Prachand’. By November 2022, the IA had begun receiving its LCH. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has now given preliminary approval to acquire 156 more Light Combat Helicopters.

 

 

Features. The LCH, an attack helicopter derived from a weaponised version of the HAL-manufactured Dhruv helicopter ‘Rudra’, is a light and agile machine with a unique feature that sets it apart from any other combat helicopter in the world: its ability to operate at high altitudes. This is a significant advantage, as it allows the LCH to operate effectively in the mountainous terrain of the Himalayas, a crucial area for India’s defence strategy. The helicopter possesses modern stealth characteristics, robust armour protection, advanced weapon systems, and electronic warfare systems. Its performance characteristics and features are as follows, showcasing its unique and impressive capabilities:

 

    • Performance. The LCH is designed for high-altitude operations, with a service ceiling of about 6,500 meters (21,300 feet), the highest among all attack helicopters worldwide. It has a maximum Take-off Weight of around 5,800 kg and can carry 700 kg of payload. The helicopter can cruise at 260km/h and achieve a maximum speed of 268km/h. With a range of 550 km with weapons, it can fly for about 3 hours, showcasing its impressive performance capabilities.

 

    • Armament. The LCH has a chin-mounted and twin-barrel M621 20mm cannon on a Nexter THL-20 turret, integrated with the Helmet Mounted Sighting System. Its modular design allows it to be armed with various weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, rocket pods, iron bombs, cluster bombs, and grenade launchers. This versatility in carrying different weapons makes the LCH suitable for various missions, from air-to-air combat to ground attack. It has four hardpoints capable of carrying a combination of multiple weapons. It is also equipped with a Forges de Zeebrugge-built FZ231 rocket launcher capable of carrying 70mm rockets, MBDA air-to-air, air-to-surface, anti-radiation missiles, and Helina anti-tank guided missiles (Dhruvastra).

 

    • Engine: The helicopter is powered by two HAL/Turbomeca Shakti turboshaft engines, each of which can generate approximately 1000kW and has a Full Authority Digital Electronic Control system (FADEC). The French Turbomeca and HAL jointly developed the Shakti engine, which was also fitted on the Dhruv and Rudra helicopters.

 

    • Advanced Technology (Sensors and Avionics): The helicopter features a glass cockpit, a composite airframe structure, and a state-of-the-art sensor suite, enhancing operational efficiency and durability. The glass cockpit accommodates two crew members in tandem. It has an Integrated Avionics Display System (IADS), multi-function displays, a target acquisition and designation system (TADS) with FLIR (laser range finder and a designator), a helmet-mounted sight and a digital video recorder to capture battlefield footage for debriefing. The sensors fitted on the helicopter include a charge-coupled device camera, a forward-looking infrared camera and a laser designator. The two cameras capture the enemy’s location and position. The targeting system features an electro-optical pod, helmet-mounted sight display (HMSD), and a laser range finder and designator for precise targeting and engagement. The LCH is also equipped with a data link for network-centric operations.

 

    • Survivability: The helicopter has numerous features to increase its survivability, including stealth features to reduce radar and infrared signatures. It has systems like Radar warning receivers (RWR), missile approach warning systems, laser warning systems, and chaff and flare dispensers for self-protection. The helicopter also has engine exhaust Infra-Red Suppression Systems (IRSS). The IRSS enhances aircraft resilience against IR-guided missiles by diminishing the missile lock-on distance and facilitating the superior functioning of IR jammers and flares. It has several other protection features, such as armour protection, self-sealing fuel tanks, a digital camouflage system, and crashworthy landing gear to enhance its survivability in hostile environments. The pressurised cabin of the helicopter offers protection from Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) attacks.

 

    • Versatility and Agility: The features above allow LCH to perform numerous roles under all weather and day-night conditions. Its narrow fuselage and advanced aerodynamics provide high agility, making it difficult to detect and target. The specially designed hinge-less rotor makes it highly agile due to its immediate response to flight control commands.

 

Roles and Tasks. The LCH meets the requirements of modern warfare and has the capability parameters to operate under varied conditions. Equipped with advanced systems and various weapons, it can perform multiple combat and support roles. In attack roles, it can undertake missions like the destruction of enemy air defence (DEAD), anti-tank warfare, battlefield air support, interdiction, and counter-surface force operations. It is capable of battlefield reconnaissance and target acquisition. It can also be used to escort convoys and provide aerial coverage. The LCH can track and attack slow-moving aerial targets and remotely piloted aircraft. It is also effective in counter-insurgency operations in jungle and urban environments.

 

Capability Enhancement. The LCH’s versatility and offensive potential are at par or better than most attack helicopters operating globally. Its presence itself deters adversaries. The induction of the Light Combat Helicopter adds unique capability to India’s combat potential. The LCH is noted for its capability to operate at high altitudes up to 6,500 meters, making it particularly suitable for operations in mountainous regions like the Himalayas along India’s northern and northeastern borders. This versatility, along with advanced avionics and weaponry, makes the LCH a force multiplier, significantly enhancing the combat capabilities of the Indian armed forces. It is a potent platform with day and night ground attack and aerial combat capability. It is a game changer, reflecting its multiple capabilities and strategic importance. It offers strategic flexibility through rapid deployment, allowing quick responses to emerging threats. The helicopter’s data link will mesh into the IAF’s networked environment.

 

Self-reliance and Challenges. Being an Indigenous platform developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the LCH reduces reliance on foreign military technology and supports India’s defence industry. With the Indian thrust on indigenisation, the LCH is being developed under a public-private partnership model, with the active participation of the private sector. There is still much left to be achieved regarding self-reliance. The LCH reportedly has an indigenous content of 45% by value, which is likely to progressively increase to more than 55%. The development of indigenous engines is the foremost challenge. Developing an aircraft engine is tough and expensive; it requires considerable investment in R&D and sustained effort over many years. These helicopters are on one of the government’s positive indigenisation lists. The list bans importing weapons, systems, and ammunition. Integration of Indigenous Anti-Tank Guided Missiles is another challenge. Helina/Dhruvastra, a helicopter version of the Nag missile, has already been tested on ALH (Rudra) and is in the process of integration with LCH. Next on the list is the challenge of production rate. The new order of 156 LCH aircraft will likely take 5 to 6 years to complete.

 

The induction of an additional 156 LCH is a significant development. The LCH’s high-altitude operational capability, advanced avionics, versatile armament, and Indigenous development make it a crucial asset for India’s defence forces. Its ability to operate in challenging terrains and perform multiple combat roles effectively positions it as a game changer in modern warfare, particularly in India’s unique geographic and strategic challenges.

 

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Link to the article on Chanakya website: -https://chanakyaforum.com/prachand-the-himalayan-griffin/ 

 

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References:-

  1. Air Chief Marshal Fali H Major (retd), “Why India’s Light Combat Helicopter could be a game changer”, DailyO, 28 Feb 2020.
  1. Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd), “Rotary Wing Platforms: India’s Great Indigenisation Story”, Indian Defence Review, Issue Vol. 38.1, Jan-Mar 2023, 13 Apr 2023.
  1. “Ten reasons why indigenously-built Light Combat Helicopter is a game changer for the Indian Air Force”, India News Network, 04 Apr 2022.
  1. Rahul Singh, “Govt to buy 156 light combat helicopters from HAL at ₹50k-cr”, Hindustan Times, 18 Jun 2024.
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  1. Gordon Arthur, “India advances light attack helicopter program with large tender”, Air Warfare, 21 Jun 2024.
  1. Huma Siddiqui, “MoD Issues RFP for 156 Prachand Helicopters to HAL for IAF and Army”, Financial Express, 20 Jun 2024.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

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