The defence ministry has issued a tender to Bengaluru-based plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the proposed acquisition of 156 Prachand light combat helicopters (LCH) to sharpen the capabilities of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, officials aware of the matter said on Monday( 17 June 2024).

The new helicopters, 90 for the army and 66 for IAF, are estimated to cost Rs.50,000 crore, the officials said asking not to be named. This will further boost India's self-reliance drive.

The development comes two months after the ministry issued a tender to HAL for the proposed acquisition of 97 light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) to strengthen the IAF's capabilities at a time it is grappling with a shortage of fighter squadrons.

The new fighter planes are expected to cost around Rs.67,000 crore.