India’s Light Combat Helicopter Operational by 2011

The indigenously designed and developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) made its inaugural flight on March 29, 2010. The helicopter is in the 5.5 ton category with narrow fuselage, tandem seat configuration for pilot and co-pilot with glass cockpit.

LCH’s initial operational clearance (IOC) is scheduled for December, 2011. After achievement of IOC, the schedule for final operational clearance (FOC) will be formalized. After receipt of FOC, HAL will approach IAF for supply orders and the delivery schedule.

LCH will be initially inducted into the IAF and subsequently to other Indian Armed Forces. Possibility of export will arise only after meeting the requirement of the Indian Armed Forces.

This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju in a written reply to Shri L Raja Gopal in Lok Sabha today