HAL Light Combat Helicopter ( LCH ) : Light-Lethal-Multirole

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Light Combat Helicopter developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited ( HAL ) is a multirole combat helicopter for use by Indian Army and Indian Air Force. It is an attack helicopter derived from the existing HAL Dhruv helicopter. The LCH can be deployed in various roles, including tracking slow-moving aerial targets, insurgency, destroying enemy defences, search and rescue, anti-tank and scouting. It is one of the best weapon systems developed in India presently and has ushered Indian defence market in a new era of modernization and Indigenisation. Read on to know more about this magnificent attack chopper :

Background :

During the 1999 Kargil War, operations of Indian Air Force were hampered as the only combat helicopter, the Mi-35, couldn’t operate at extremely high altitudes where most of the conflict was concentrated.
"The Mi-35 couldn’t even cross the Banihal pass. We were handicapped and badly needed a chopper that can even launch assaults at high altitudes,” (Retd) Wing Commander Unni Pillai, the chief test pilot of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) reminisced. India has always been at a back foot regarding attack helicopters in comparison to its regional rivals like Pakistan which operates nearly 48 Bell AH-1F/S Attack helicopters which it acquired from U.S. and will be getting CAIC Z-10 from China and T-129 'Atak' from Turkey in addition to Bell AH-1Z Viper from U.S. and Mi-35 'Hind-E' from Russia.

India on the other hand operated some 20 Mi-35 some of which has been donated to Afghanistan and indigenous HAL Rudra which is an armed variant of HAL Dhruv utility helicopters. India lacked any sort of offensive attack helicopters fleet and India needed dedicated attack helicopters to keep up its offensive teeth. Loopholes were highlighted when India could not deploy any attack helicopters for troop support in high altitude warfare during Kargil War.

The inability of the MI-25/MI-35 and even the armed MI-17 to operate at these heights resulted in a critical weapon system being left out of the battle, for which India paid a heavy price in terms of casualties. Accordingly, the government approved the development of the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) by the state owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in 2006. 

Development :

HAL LCH is derived from existing Dhruv helicopter and share many commonality with Dhruv. This is being termed as advantageous because the countries which operate HAL Dhruv can also use those same spares employed for Dhruv in LCH also.

LCH ground run, was carried out for the first time on February 4, 2010 . The first prototype Technology Demonstrator TD-1 first took to air on 29 March, 2010. It flew a 20-minute flight from HAL's Helicopter Complex, Bengaluru piloted by Group Captains Unni Pillai and Hari Nair. It carried out low speed, low altitude checks on the systems on board. The crew reported that the performance of the helicopter and systems were satisfactory.

“It is a big day for all of us, especially those involved in the LCH’s design and fabrication,” Ashok Nayak, chairman and managing director of HAL, told Business Standard. “We were going to have the first LCH flight in December but, for one reason or another, it kept getting delayed.” HAL’s Helicopter Complex, R Srinivasan, told Business Standard that the LCH’s weight would be progressively reduced over the first three Technology Demonstrators (TDs) of the LCH. “We will find ways of cutting down TD-1 by 180-200 kg; TD-2, will be another 100 kg lighter; and TD-3 will shave off another 65-75 kg. That would leave the LCH about 200 kg heavier than originally planned, but the IAF has accepted that.”HAL chief Ashok Nayak today confirmed to Business Standard that this schedule was on track. “The weight reduction that we had targeted for TD-1, which flew on Monday, has been met. The second prototype, TD-1, which will make its first flight by September, will be lighter still.”

HAL LCH TD-1 during flight

LCH TD-2 took to air on 28 June 2011. The TD-2 also had lots of Indian Army specific inputs like the revolutionary digital camouflage. Also the TD-2 is 100kgs lighter than the TD-1. TD-2 is also equipped with a fully functional target acquisition and pilots vision pod a feature which was not seen in TD-1. HAL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Ashok Nayak told India Strategic in interviews at the Paris Air Show and New Delhi that the second aircraft was a "considerable improvement" over the first prototype as HAL and DRDO scientists had been able to achieve substantial weight reduction. Mr Nayak said the second prototype was flown to a height of 1.5 km with an All Up Weight (AUW) of 4900 kgs. The parametres successfully tested by HAL test pilots included general handling, slow speed handling, basic Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) checks, up to 1.5 km altitude and with 60 degree bank turns. ​

​HAL LCH TD-2 in a digital camoflauge

The second prototype (TD-2) of Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) successfully completed the sea-level trials at Air Force Station, Tambaram in Chennai which commenced on 1 July 2012. LCH's air speed measurement system was trialed and various component stresses gauged were measured.

HAL LCH TD-3 took to air on 12 November, 2014 as it was piloted by Wg Cdr Unni Pillai (Retd), HAL's Chief Test Pilot (CTP), Rotary Wing (RW) and ably assisted by Gp Capt Hari Nair (Retd), Deputy CTP (RW), the 20-minute maiden outing of LCH TD-3 was a flawless affair.

HAL Chairman R K Tyagi told OneIndia, "This is a mean machine and we have made many changes to TD-3, compared to TD-1 and TD-2. The users gave us many feedbacks and our designers were quick to respond to the challenges". "We have ensured that LCH TD-3 and TD-4 will have more ‘Made in India' systems and components including Integrated Avionics and Display System and Automatic Flight Control System. Not a single snag was reported during today's flight," he added.

​HAL LCH TD-3

The cold weather trials of the LCH were carried out at Air Force Station, Leh in early 2015. The engine starts were satisfactory in the temperature of -18 °C at 4.1 km altitude. The flight trials at Leh have established hover performance and low speed handling characteristics of the helicopter under extreme weather conditions at different altitudes (3200 to 4800 m). During the trials, the helicopter and systems performed satisfactorily. LCH also has proven its capability to land and take off at Forward Landing Base in Siachen.  LCH is the first attack helicopter to land in Forward Bases at Siachen,” said T. Suvarna Raju, CMD, HAL. The trials were carried out on the third prototype of LCH (TD-3) at Leh at the temperatures ranging from 13 to 27 degree centigrade with the participation of user pilots from air force, army and representatives from CEMILAC and DGAQA. Various tests included assessment and validation of flight envelope in ‘Hot-and-High’ conditions, culminating in landing at forward bases at geographic elevations of 13,600 feet to 15,800 feet. These landings and take-offs were demonstrated with reasonable amount of weapon load and fuel. 

​LCH at Leh

LCH TD-4 completed its maiden flight on December 1,2015. LCH now had completed performance trials paving way for certification of basic configuration and a letter to this effect was handed over to HAL by CEMILAC in the presence of Defence Minister on Oct 16, 2015.

HAL Press Release then informed that LCH has passed rocket trials and will participate in Iron Fist Exercise. According to HAL has now satisfactorily fired Rockets (70 mm) from its prototype, TD-3 in weaponized configuration. "The initial rocket firing trials have been carried out at Jaisalmer, establishing satisfactory integration of hardware and software, structural integrity and safe separation of rocket ammunition. Integration of weapons such as Rocket, Turret Gun (20 mm) and Air to Air Missile on LCH will further continue", said HAL 's CMD T. Suvarna Raju. The LCH TD-3 was integrated with Electo-Optical (EO) System, Solid State Digital Video Recording System (SSDVR) and 70mm Rocket system in conjunction with an updated Glass Cockpit software to cater for rocket firing. 

HAL LCH TD-3 during rocket trials

During Iron Fist 2016 HAL LCH fired rockets on simulated tanks. See HAL LCH performance at Iron Fist 2016 :

The last buzz was that HAL LCH is undergoing weapons integration and will start weapons trials.

“LCH is ready, we are integrating its weapons, we tried rockets and it was good, we need to try missiles ATGM — anti-tank guided missile, (these) are the ones which we are integrating and we just have to demonstrate that,” the chairman of HAL, Suvarnu Raju told The Times of India. Speaking to the Times of India, Raju also revealed that HAL is undertaking limited serial production of the LCH. “We have launched a limited series production, with a confidence and hope that we get definite orders on this. We have also inquiries on this platform from other countries, and so we will start making five helicopters this year,” Raju said.

The Indian Army’s Army Aviation Corps (AAC) has expressed its intention of acquiring 114 helicopters and the IAF 65. However, no contract has been signed so far. “It has to turn into a contract between the Services and HAL,” according to Raju. The AAC helicopter fleet is only at 70 percent of its authorized strengths, according to the Indian Ministry of Defense. LCH is envisioned to fill that requirement. The LCH is now in an in an advanced stage of induction.

According to media sources India is in talks with "certain" countries in Africa for possible export of the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter even as the Indian Defence Ministry has set a target of $2 billion worth of exports over the next two years. "We are in talks with certain countries in Africa who have evinced interest in the LCH. With great value for money, the helicopter is an attractive buy for many countries," a senior defence official said. 

Asked why the countries would be interested in a chopper which is yet to get final certification, the official said, "The certification is a formal process. The countries interested in the LCH in the current form do not need high features like air to air missiles. For them turret gun along with some other features work." 

Design and Airframe:-

The aircraft was originally conceived as Light Attack Helicopter in 1989 based upon early IAF requirements. The early model has a far aft tail wheel and a stepped canopy. After a design revision in 2002 HAL moved to a fixed cannon design and a nose wheel configuration. In August 2013, IAF issued a new Air Staff requirement, and it was designated LCH and the design was approved by Defence Acquisition Council in 2006 and a mockup was displayed at Aero India 2007 with final design frozen in March 2008 .LCH is derived from the existing Dhruv Helicopter. The flight controls and hydraulics of Dhruv have been redesigned for the LCH. It will be again a wonder that the LCH was designed from Dhruv, a utility helicopter and HAL’s most successful plan which is used in other nations too, knowing the fact that both are totally different in their design as well as their role. But it is the very reality. Initially HAL had done some major changes on Dhruv to develop LAH (light attack helicopter) in Jun 2001. Later this Light Attack Helicopter’s (LAH) model was discarded and was restyled to Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) signifying light combat roles. Original slimmed-down ‘gunship’ fuselage was discarded and basic Dhruv airframe was curtained except the forward fuselage which was modified to tandem crew seating.

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Main and tail rotor diameters are 13.3m and 2.05m respectively. It has increased survivability features like Crash worthy under floor structure and Crash worthy fixed tricycle type with tail wheel landing gear. It supports some stealth features like Canted flat panels for low Radar Cross Section. Composites Manufacturing Division of HAL has carried out Monolithic & sandwich construction structural parts for LCH. Composites have been used in Rotor systems (Main Rotor Blades, Tail Rotor Blades, Hub Plates and Torque plates etc.). The excessive use of composite materials makes the airframe both light and sturdy the basic philosophy LCH wanted to achieve as a light attack helicopter. The LCH design exhibits a sleek exterior. The weapons specialist and pilot are seated in a stepped tandem arrangement cockpit with the gunner in front and the pilot at the rear.

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( A digital MockUp of HAL LCH )

The engine nacelles are contoured nicely along the sides of the fuselage at amidships and power a low-mounted, four-bladed main rotor mast and four-bladed tail rotor, the latter driven by a shaft running inside the empennage. The tail rotor is set to face off of the starboard side of the aircraft. The empennage is elevated in the design and requires a special rear landing gear leg for support when on the ground. The undercarriage, as a whole, consists of the rear support leg and a pair of main landing gear legs to either side of the forward fuselage. Each leg is heavily strutted for the rigors of daily operation and to absorb a full-impact crash landing. The undercarriage will remain fixed during flight as is not retractable. The empennage also fits a single vertical tail fin and horizontal planes. There are two short wingstubs for the mounting of munitions, external fuel stores and specialized equipment pods as needed.

Its design is Stealthier than Apache and Mi-28 and is superior to other modern attack chopper like Chinese ZW 19.

The capability of the airframe is well understood by the fact that HAL LCH ( 5800 kg ) maximum-take off weight is more than double of its empty weight ( 2250 kg ).

Features :-

It sports some advanced features like Anti Resonance Isolation System ( ARIS ) which helps in Vibration damping. This feature is already present in ALH Dhruv comprising of four isolator elements between the fuselage and the main gearbox. The dynamic systems of the Dhruv have been adapted in it, making it both formidable and dependable. It is equipped with four-axis auto stabilization system and anti-resonance isolation system (ARIS) for a comfortable and easy flight.

Like the ‘Dhruv’, the LCH too adheres to the following FAR/MILSPEC standards:
·         US Army Aeronautical Design Standard-33E (ADS-33E)
·         Flaw-Tolerant Rotor System: FAR/JAR 29.571, AM 29-28
·         Crashworthy Fuel System: FAR/JAR 29.952, AM 29-35
·        Flaw-Tolerant Drive Train with Over Torque Certification: FAR/JAR 29.952, AM 29-28
·         Turbine Burst Protection: FAR/JAR 29.901, AM 29-36
·         Composite Spar Main & Tail Rotor Blades with Lightning Strike Protection: FAR/JAR 1309(h), AM 29-40
·         Engine Compartment Fire Protection: FAR/JAR 29.1193
·         Redundant Hydraulics & Flaw Tolerant Flight Controls: FAR/JAR 29.571, AM 29-28
·         Aircraft-Wide Bird Strike Protection: FAR/JAR 29.631, AM 29-40
·         Crashworthiness Standard: NATO’s MIL-STD-1290
·         Crashworthy Seats Conforming to MIL-STD-1472B
·         Cockpit Instrumentation Lighting Conforming to MIL-STD-85762A
·         Avionics Databus: MIL-STD-1553B or ARINC-429
·         Autopilot Accuracy: MIL-F-9490D
·         Embedded MIL-STD-188-141B ALE Link Protection
·         Embedded MIL-STD-188-110B data modem

HAL LCH sports an Electronic Warfare Suite and a state-of-the-art sensor suite which includes electronic warfare suite with a radar warning receiver, laser warning receiver and missile approach warning system. ​The LCH’s four-axis auto-hover and digital automatic flight control system have been developed in-house, while the DRDO’s Bangalore-based Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE) is developing the defensive aids suite, which includes a combined radar/laser warning system (this being SaabTech’s MILDS AR-60V2) and Bharat Dynamics Ltd-developed countermeasures dispensers. 

DARE has also developed in-house the digital mission computer and pylon interface boxes. The flight control actuator system has been co-developed by HAL and the UK-based APPH. The SAGEM subsidiary of France’s SAFRAN Group, which has had a presence in India since the 1960s, has supplied the piloting inertial reference system (APIRS), more than 100 of which are already on board the Dhruv ALH. The APIRS uses new-generation inertial technologies like fibre-optic gyroscope (FOG) and silicon accelerometer. Other SAGEM-supplied items on board are the digital autopilot (which is also on the ‘Dhruv’), and the Sigma-95L RLG-INS. It will also feature a 25kg C-Music directional infra-red countermeasures (DIRCM) suite. 

HAL LCH also sports a Elbit Compact Multi Purpose Advance Stabilisation System (CoMPASS) electro-optic/infrared turret that is integrated into the nose . The CoMPASS is a day-and-night surveillance system that includes a colour TV daylight camera, third generation 3-5 µm forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor; laser target designator and rangefinder; and automatic tracking capabilities. It is being license built in India by Bharat Electronics Limited.

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​LCH Electronic Warfare Suite shown in the diagram

The similarity with Dhruv includes Integrated Dynamic Systems , transmission system , basic electrical lines replaceable units ( LRUs ) such as AC and DC power generating systems , indicators , battery junction box , control grips and fire detection systems and avionics LRUs such as communication systems ( VHF/UHF ) , cockpit voice recorders and flight data recorders. Primary changes from the Dhruv includes tandem seating, flat cockpit transparencies for reduced glint , flat faceted fuselage panels radar absorbing materials for a reduced RCS , crashworthy structure and landing gear , pressurized cockpit cabin ( with filters for NBC cabin ) , armour panels and IR engine suppressors. It also has a Digital Video Recording System ( DVRS ).

Digital Audio Control System (DACS) onboard HAL LCH eases the Pilot’s burden by efficiently minimizing the controls, interfacing all the signals in a logical manner and provides the following functions:
1. Intercommunication between Flight Crew and Ground Crew.
2. Interface and control of mike and headset audio signals of various transceivers.
3. Interface of warning signals.
4. Interface to the Cockpit Voice Recorder and Voice Data Recorder. Digital Audio Control System (DACS) implements audio signal conditioning in digital domain using digital signal processing techniques and provides better signal quality by using efficient Adaptive Noise Cancellation 

Solid-state modular design and rugged construction provides long life, high reliability and excellent maintainability for both new and retrofit applications on fixed wing and rotary wing platforms. The DACS is a compact, lightweight and low cost system. The DACS 2300A series meets stringent MIL STD requirements like MIL STD 810F and MIL STD 461C/E. 

Non-retractable and crashworthy tricycle type landing gear has been used to eliminate the possibility of crash landing and making it easier to land on unstable platforms or terrains.

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A datalink system transmits mission data to mobile platforms and ground stations operating within the network. Such network-centric operations facilitate the transfer of mission data to the other airborne platforms and ground stations operating in the network, facilitating force multiplication. A Automatic Flight Control Computer (AFCC) onboard LCH processes various pilot commands from pilot control unit for various mode selections, and provides indications, warnings and failure status to cockpit . Automatic Flight Control Computer (AFCC) is PowerPC-7448 based system. It has two processing channels with inter-processor synchronization and data communication, and is interfaced with various sensors, cockpit controls and actuators. It performs all the processing and computations in real time It generates commands for Series and Trim actuators, in pitch, roll, yaw and collective axes for basic control and stabilization of Light Combat Helicopter. It has built in safety functions to with-hold actuator commands in case of failure detection, and has automatic reset features to restart after removal of failures. It processes various pilot commands from pilot control unit for various mode selections, and provides indications, warnings and failure status to cockpit ​.

HAL LCH can well operate in "hot and high conditions" .In “hot and high” conditions, a helicopter operates in summertime temperatures at extreme altitudes of over 15,000 feet. In these conditions, oxygen in the air is depleted not just by the altitude, but also by the expansion of air due to high temperatures of 13-27 degrees Centigrade. This combination of conditions taxes the helicopter’s engine to the maximum. According to sources it has a “stealthy” fuselage that is hard to detect with radar. The machine is a Low Observable (LO) design with reduced visual, aural, radar and infra red signatures. The redesigned fuselage incorporates tandem seating (the two pilots in the LCH sit one behind the other), compared to side-byside in the Dhruv. The design provides lower radar cross section and the Infra Red (IR) signature due to hot exhaust gases is lowered by providing IR suppressors for the engines. A crash-resistant landing gear enables pilots to survive even when the LCH impacts the ground at 10 metres/second. To operate at high altitudes HAL LCH also has a Helicopter Oxygen System developed by DRDO . The oxygen system consists of a light weight 2 litre composite cylinder (service pressure of 200 bar) fitted with a pressure reducer cum regulator valve and a Dilution Demand Oxygen Regulator (DDOR). The DDOR supplies the breathing gas of appropriate concentration of oxygen depending on the altitude to the pilot through an oxygen mask attached to aircrew helmet. Helicopter Oxygen System has been qualified for airborne & is planned for bulk production and induction into service. [ Citation needed ​].

Cockpit :

The LCH has a glass cockpit accommodating two crew, who sit one behind the other. The cockpit is equipped with multifunction displays, target acquisition and designation systems, and a digital video recorder to capture footage of the battlefield for use in debriefing. A helmet-mounted target system controls the turret guns mounted on the helicopter’s fuselage.The term Glass Cockpit refers to a modern cockpit in which all the round dialled electro-mechanical instruments have been replaced with Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) and a Head Up Display (HUD). A glass cockpit uses several displays driven by flight management systems, which can be adjusted to display flight information as needed. This simplifies aircraft operation and navigation and allows pilots to focus only on the most pertinent information. The MFDs are colour Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Displays (AMLCDs) Information required by the pilot to take-off, navigate, perform his operational mission, deliver his weapons, cope with enemy threats, return to base and land is gathered by sensors on board the aircraft, processed by a mission computer and then displayed on the MFDs and HUD.

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Light Combat Helicopter Cockpit and Displays Systems displayed at Aero India

To make the LCH a survivable platform, HAL has designed its own impact absorbing landing gear and will improve on the Dhruv ALH’s ballistic tolerance with up to 100kg of composite-/ceramics-based modular armour, whose positioning is based on an IAF study of the areas most likely to suffer bullet damage. The tandem-seat cockpits each have twin side-by-side AMLCDs, will be NVG-compatible, will provide NBC protection to the crew, and have a ‘JedEyes’ helmet-mounted targetting system co-developed by HAL and Israel’s Elbit Systems. JedEyes is designed for day, night and brownout flight environments. JedEyes TM has a 70 x 40 degree FOV and 2250x1200 pixels resolution. JedEyes addresses the special needs of helicopter pilots and offers dramatic improvements over existing HMDs, not only through its ultra-wide Field of View (FOV), but also by providing razor-sharp, high resolution imagery and allowing pilots to take in wider than ever areas of ground and sky, with everything in sharp focus. Exciting features and unique technologies combine to provide dual vision 3D imagery on the See-Through Visor as well as processing and manipulation of a variety of visual cues and video sources such as UAVs, digital maps and on and off-board sensors. 

A Tadiran SDR-7200AR multi-bandwidth software-defined radio, and the QuadEye panoramic night vision goggle is also on the proposed list. The IAF has also demanded that the LCH be equipped with anti-missile defence system like BAE Systems’ ‘Boldstroke’, which uses modular open-system architecture and non-proprietary standard interfaces that support interchangeability, technology insertion, and diminishing manufacturing sources resolution. It allows for direct and fibre-coupling between the laser and pointer/tracker, providing installation flexibility to meet the size, weight, and power requirements of both light and heavy rotary-winged platforms. It is much lighter, has fewer moving optical parts and uses mirrors instead of a physical ‘light pipe’ to shoot its laser. The entire unit is housed in one box. A helicopter with ‘Boldstroke’ mounted on either side would have 360 degrees of assured protection from IR-guided anti-aircraft missiles.

​LCH Glass-Cockpit. A Hindi video documentary on HAL LCH. You can als

Armour :

HAL LCH though light in its configuration is pretty well armoured to protect itself against 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm rounds.

​Light weight Ceramic Faced Composite Armour Panels for Advanced Light Helicopter and Mi-17-IV helicopter have successfully undergone integration and flight-trials. This provides protection to aircrews and critical parts of helicopter against hits of bullets of 12.7 mm AP.
Composite laminates were made using kevlar fabric as reinforcement and modified epoxy resin for matrix. Kevlar-epoxy composite laminates of different thicknesses were prepared by compression moulding process.
Kevlar-epoxy composite laminates were bonded with alumina ceramic cylindrical pellets with the help of epoxy structural adhesive. Gaps between the ceramic pellets were filled with modified epoxy resin.

A Snap highlighting LCH armour from DRDO Newsletter

LCH is tested against Armour piercing incendiary 12.7×108mm of Russian Heavy Machine Gun which is powerful than Western 12.7x99mm ammunition.

Composite armour panels :

This makes LCH effective as both an anti-infantry and anti-armour helicopter as it can survive direct hits from Heavy Machine gun and Medium Machine Guns during a mission and return to base safely.

Armaments :

The weapons package of HAL LCH makes it no less than a "flying tank". Its weapon package is derived from that of HAL Rudra . It has 4 (two under each wing) hardpoints and has provisions of carrying 4 × 70/80 mm rocket-pod or 4 × two-round MISTRAL Air-to-Air Missiles or 2 x 4-round LAHAT or HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missile or 4 × 250 kg (550 lb) bombs in varying configuration.
1. 20mm M-621 Cannon on THL-20 Turret :

THL-20 Helicopter Gun Turret

M621 20mm cannon on a Nexter THL-20 turret

HAL LCH sports a M621 20mm cannon on a Nexter THL-20 turret which can be cued towards the target using a helmet-mounted target system . M621 is a French 20 mm automatic cannon, designed by GIAT now known as Nexter Systems which is used on armoured vehicles, aircrafts, helicopters and small coastal vessels in France, India among other nations. Its variants include THL 20
(Turreted cannon for helicopters) , POD NC 621 (Cannon pod for helicopters and light aircraft ) , SH20 (Door mounted cannon for helicopters ) and others. Its specifications are :-
1.Calibre: 20×102 mm
2.Gun Weight: 45.5 kg
3.Gun Length: 220.7 cm
4.Muzzle velocity: 985-1030 m/s depending on ammunition type
5.Bore Length: 146 cm
6.Rate of fire: 800 rpm
7.Feed system : Open-link M12 belt
8.Capacity: Belt fed, platform dependent capacity (160 for model 15A naval mounting, 300-750 for THL 20)

LCH will be able to carry 800 rounds of ammunition, with an effective range of 2500 feet and can effectively ground based armoured targets and other targets.

2. HELINA ( Helicopter launched-Nag ) Anti-Tank Guided Missile :

HAL Rudra launching a HELINA missile

HELINA is the air-launched version of Prospina ( Nag ) Anti-Tank Guided Missile which has a maximum range of 7 km-8 km. It is a 3rd generation fire-and-forget type missile. It has an 8 kg tandem HEAT warhead. The Prospina is a top attack missile. During flight it when approaching the target it flies upwards and then suddenly dives towards the target. This method of attack is very suitable to destroy tanks, because most of them have only a minimum level of armor protection in the upper part of the turret. The Prospina can penetrate the latest generation armor, like explosive reactive armor and composite armor.For guidance the Prospina uses imagining infrared passive seeker system which is difficult to jam. The guidance system is also equipped with a CCD camera. Before the launch missile locks on the infrared image of the target. In flight it automatically guides itself onto the target. Hit probability with a single missile is 77%.
The body of the missile is fully made of fiberglass structure. The rocket motor of the missile uses nitramene-based double base sustainer propellant which is smokeless and makes hard to trace the shooter. Missile has a flight speed of 230 m/s. It can be launched from twin-tube stub wing-mounted launchers on board the armed light combat helicopters and advanced light helicopters. This missile is airborne and has a lock-on-after system. India’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) plans to extend the range of the HELINA (Helicopter-mounted Nag) anti-armour missile into a >20-km range strike munition for combat aircraft and helicopters. HELINA project director KS Vara Prasad has indicated that his team is building a “miniaturised inertial navigation package” to enhance the existing weapon without adding weight or too much cost.

HELINA being fired from HAL Rudra :

However HELINA is still under development is not likely to be ready in near future leaving a critical void in operational capability of its firepower.Indian army chief General Bipin Rawat speaking to media has lambasted that both Indigenous Attack/combat helicopters HAL Rudra and HAL Light Combat Helicopter have major shortcomings, that is in their current configuration both do not have suitable anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), which is the main weapon of any Attack/combat helicopters around the world.

Reportedly Dhruvastra twin-rail launcher will be used for HELINA missile which was show cased at Aero India 2017. 

​Besides here is the animation of HELINA missile :

3. LAHAT ( (Laser Homing Attack or Laser Homing Anti-Tank ) Anti-Tank Guided Missile :

LAser Homing Attack Missile, or LAHAT, is an advanced missile developed and manufactured by the MBT Division of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It is a light weight missile suitable for precision attack missions.
The gun or canister launched missile can be fired from a range of platforms such as armoured vehicles, tanks and helicopters. The missile is effectively used in urban areas requiring a low collateral damage solution. It can hit both stationed and moving targets while avoiding the air defence of hostile forces. 
LAHAT has a length of 975mm, diameter of 104.5mm and a weight of 12.5kg. A LAHAT launcher equipped with four missiles weighs less than 80kg. The compact dimensions of the missile allow easy integration on light-weight helicopters, light vehicles and armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs).

Launching of LAHAT requires minimal exposure in the firing position. The commander's sight is provided with LRF / laser designator to maintain line of sight to the target during the flight of the missile.
The detection of firing position is very difficult due to low launch signature of the missile. The trajectory can be set to match either top attack or direct attack engagements. LAHAT has a semi-active laser guidance system using direct and indirect laser designation. The missile uses a tandem warhead which is capable of defeating all types of modern armour, including add-on reactive armour. High penetration capability of the main warhead allows the missile to penetrate the armour of major armoured vehicles at high impact angles. 

It has a speed of 285–300 m/s and has a range of 8000 m- 13000 m from an air-launched platform. It has a 10 kg warhead which can defeat armour of Main Battle Tanks.

LAHAT was also planned for Indian Arjun Main Battle Tank but that plans were dropped for an indigenous Cannon-Launched Guided Missile. Here is a great video on the capacity of LAHAT Missile :

4. Mistral ATAM ( Air-to-Air Mistral ) Air-to-Air Missile :

MISTRAL ATAM is based on the MISTRAL missile with its fire-and-forget engagement mode, ease of operation and unrivalled kill probability.
The system is based on two launchers, each bearing two missiles and can be connected to the helicopter’s combat system, when mounted on combat helicopters, or through simplified control equipment if installed on multi-purpose helicopters.
In both cases, it is characterised by simplicity of operation, a very low crew workload and a high level of performance.
The system can be operated within the whole flight envelope of the launch helicopter, at speeds of up to 200 knots and at altitudes exceeding 15,000 ft. Its specifications are :

• Weight : 18.7 kg
•  Length : 1.86 m
•  Diameter : 90 mm
•  Maximum intercept range : 6.5 km
•  Minimum intercept range : 500 m

MISTRAL ATAM ensures a large off-boresight capability, together with the ability to aim the missile seeker very precisely at a given target.
The missile has a shaped trajectory in order to intercept targets top-down or at long range, the crew can also select the proximity fuze mode.
MISTRAL ATAM is currently the only helicopter mounted air-to-air missile in full operational service.
MISTRAL ATAM is operated by the French Army Aviation on the Gazelle and is also in service on the Tiger attack helicopter. It has also been integrated upon HAL Rudra.

Mistral ATAM ( Air-to-Air Mistral) are currently being integrated into HAL’s Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and are on schedule confirmed MBDA spokesman to Flightglobal. Mistral ATAM already has been integrated into Dhruv Mk IV Weapon System Integrated (WSI) and also has been test fired from Dhruv Mk IV successfully. Mistral ATAM with its fire-and-forget engagement mode, ease of operation and unrivalled kill probability ( about 95 % ) makes LCH quite a formidable platform against aerial targets.

5. Unguided Rockets :

LCH is armed with 4 stub-wing mounted Forges de Zeebrugge built rocket launcher FZ-231 carrying 70mm (2.75“) rockets.
It can be used in wide number of roles :

• Attack
• Ground fire support
• Armed reconnaissance
• Air-to-ground combat
• Close air support
• Anti-infantry
• Anti-armour

This launcher has a versatile firing control system and this 70 mm unguided rocket system (change of rocket type without change of any fixed part on helicopter ) acn be mixed loaded with different types of warheads. 

6. Iron Cluster Bombs and Anti-Radiation Missile :

According to official database , HAL LCH will also carry 4 x 250 kg bombs which include gravity bombs, cluster bombs and grenade launchers. Also it will carry Anti-Radiation Missile which is unclear as which ARM will it carry ( currently DRDO NGARM is indigenously being developed in India ).

​A HAL LCH TD-2 under construction

An earlier mockup of HAL LCH

​Capability :-

HAL LCH in short is nothing less than a "flying tank" able to operate at nearly every terrain which most modern attack helicopters are not capable off. The LCH, which made its maiden flight in May 2010, has been specifically developed in response to the lack of an attack helicopter capable of performing high-altitude operations during the 1999 Kargil War. Compared to other Light combat Helicopter platforms like Chinese Z-19 and Eurocopter Tiger , the LCH is designed for Indian conditions, to conduct operations in High Altitudes like Leh and low altitudes like Thar, Rajastan also it can perform missions in Minus zero degree Ladakh’s to hot Thar conditions.

HAL LCH during “hot and high” trials in Ladakh made the world record when it flew at one of the worlds highest landing bases located in Siachen with a decent weapons payload. The attack helicopter scaled an altitude of 4.8 kms from sea level to one of the most remote, inhospitable environment known to human beings. With deployment of LCH in this region it will tilt the favour of any army to defeat their enemy in high altitude region especially AH-1 Cobra of Pakistan and Chinese Z-19 and Z-10 which can operate at such high altitudes.

(Retd) Wing Commander, Unni Pillai, Chief Test Pilot, HAL told that: “We have a particular operating environment and we are the best people to make as per our requirement. American machines don’t have a requirement to operate above 10,000-12,000 feet. Hence to enhance our operation capabilities, it is important we make in our country.” Speaking on its digital camouflage system he spoke ,"impossible for it to be seen through any thermal image devices".

LCH TD-3 showing off its “Splinter” paint scheme at Aero India 2015 :

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TD-3 which was part of Aero India 2015 got high praise for its new paint scheme from its visitors . “Splinter” pattern was also seen on Russia’s 5th generation Pak-Fa fighter aircraft Prototypes . Splinter camouflaged paint scheme was made famous by Russians on their aircrafts which has ability to blend aircraft in Weather conditions depending on paint colours used for particular weather conditions or Natural geographical surroundings of operations. “Splinter” pattern have smaller, sharp-edged patches and can use two or three color camouflage to make them visually difficult to spot in air . Splinter camouflaged paint scheme is now also catching up with Western aircraft types which are also moving away from Single paint schemes lately .

HAL LCH carries many aerodynamic changes to reduce drag and flight performances which was highlighted during prototypes stage. The LCH can fly to extreme angles of 70 degree-80 degree nose down, demonstrating high maneuverability. Dr.Prasad Sampath general manager of RWDC, claimed the LCH , "probabaly the most agile design in the world because of its rotor". Its main rotor with swept blade tips gives it good maneuverability. At higher altitudes which is LCH-dominated LCH will turn out to be more agile and have higher performance than legacy attack helicopters in general because it is custom-designed to fight at higher altitudes.

By capacity, LCH is multirole as LCH is expected to play a major role in air defence against slow moving aerial targets, destruction of enemy air defence operations, escort to special heliborne operations, support of combat search and rescue operations, anti-tank role and scout duties. According to broucher , LCH is able to execute air defence role operations against slow moving targets like UAVs , DEAD ops along with Escort to Special Heliborne Operations and offensive employment in Urban Warfare and Counter-Surface Force Operations and COIN operations along with support of combat SAR operations. It can take off from an altitude of 10,000 feet, operate weapons at 16,300 feet, and engage targets like UAVs that are flying at altitudes of up to 21,300 feet.

In the anarchy of the modern battlefield, the attack helicopter is the ultimate predator. Operating from a forward base --- usually a small square of synthetic material tacked down onto a clearing in the fields --- the attack helicopter flies missions against enemy tanks, which are spotted by friendly scout helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Flying barely 20 feet above the ground, the attack helicopters close in with the enemy, often with rifle and machine-gun bullets spattering against their armoured bodies. Then popping up from behind a tree line, they fire missiles and rockets to destroy their targets; meanwhile sophisticated onboard electronics confuse the enemy’s radars for the couple of minutes it takes to finish the job. Then it’s back to the base to refuel and rearm, patch up the bullet holes, and leave for another mission against another target. LCH is well a cut above than its traditional rivals in such roles.

Engines :

HAL LCH is powered by two HAL/Turbomeca Shakti turboshaft engines, each of which can generate up to 871kW and can run for up to 3,000 hours without maintenance. Each engine weighs 205kg and has an output speed of 21,000rpm.

Shakti features a remarkably compact modular architecture. The gas generator includes two centrifugal stages attached to a reverse-flow combustion chamber, a single-stage gas generator turbine and a two-stage power turbine. This design ensures that the engine remains very cost-effective, particularly in terms of maintenance and cost of ownership. The engine received European Aviation Safety Agency certification in 2007. It features a Full Authority Digital Electronic Control system, which decreases the work of the pilot by automatically counting engine cycles. It is called Ardiden 1H1 by Turbomeca and its engines have a radial air intake and a two-stage centrifugal compressor driven by a single stage axial gas generator turbine. Airflow is directed through a reverse flow annular combustion chamber, through the gas generator turbine and then through and a two-stage axial free power turbine. Output power is transmitted to a front-mounted reduction gearbox by a shaft concentrically mounted within the gas generator rotor assembly. The accessory gearbox, also mounted at the front end, is driven by the gas generator. Control is by means of a dual-channel DECU.

Its Specifications are :

Power :-

Emergency Power: 1,204 kW (1,614 hp)
Max Continuous Power: 880 kW (1,180 hp)
Max Power at TakeOff: 1,053 kW (1,412 hp)
OEI 2 min: 1,099 kW (1,473 shp)
OEI Continuous: 1,024 kW (1,373 shp)

Time :-

Time Between Overhaul: 3,000 hour

Weight :-

Dry Weight: 180 kilogram (397 pound)

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​Comparison to other Attack Helicopters :

1. AH-64 Apache

India has ordered AH-64E for it as well when development of LCH was underway. While this procurement raised many eyebrows towards the capability of LCH , the role-difference was found the reason for the procurement. The Apache will be the first ( imported ) pure attack helicopter in India's possession. While the Russian origin Mi 35 has been operated for years and is now on the verge of retirement, it was an assault chopper that was designed to carry troops into heavily defended territories. Since India is phasing out its vintage Mi-35 fleet India needed a heavy-attack helicopter which can be filled by Apaches.

The rate-of-climb (ROC, measured here in meters/second) is a true measure of the maneuvering capability of an attack helicopter. Typically, a ROC of 0.5 m/sec is used to evaluate service ceiling conditions. If the hover performance is evaluated at altitudes varying from 0 ft (SL) to 25,000 ft. Altitudes in the Himalayan Mountains regularly require flights above 10,000 ft and often up to 22,000 ft. The data is presented for the LCH and the Apache for payload and available maximum ROC capability versus altitude. A threshold ROC line is shown for the reference 8 m/sec combat ROC. sea-level performance of the LCH and the Apache are similar. The Apache, with a 1,000 kg payload is able to generate a maximum vertical ROC capability of 12.77 m/sec. By comparison, at sea-level, the LCH is able to carry the 1,000 kg and is able to provide a power excess for a theoretical max ROC of 15.16 m/sec. It is instantly apparent how the Apache is able to use its outstanding source of power to lift its much heavier mass and still come close to the LCH performance. This heavier bulk involves greater armor and protection for the Apache pilots.   

Now consider how the change in altitude affects both helicopters. The Apache, trying to maintain the 1,000 kg payload, begins to tail-off its ROC capability from 12.77 m/sec at sea-level to 0 m/sec ROC at ~18,000 ft. Beyond 18,000 ft altitude, the Apache also cannot carry its 1,000 kg payload and the tail-off in that capacity is visible, although less dramatic than the Z-10 from the previous articles. The Z-10 cannot operate beyond 10,000 ft under any conditions. The Apache, on the other hand, flies and fights up till ~15,000 ft altitude.

The LCH, on the other hand, once again utilizes its light-weight structure to great effect. It can not only maintain the 1,000 kg payload for another 3,000 ft altitude (i.e. up to ~21,000 ft), the tail-off in the ROC does not drop below 8 m/sec until ~11,000 ft. The tail-off does not drop below the minimum 2.5 m/sec until ~15,000 ft.​

In rest feature comparison Apache edges out LCH in almost every aspect. The LCH will turn out to be more agile and have higher performance in general because it is custom-designed to fight at higher altitudes. The Apache, on the other hand, is a brute-force machine, matching the LCH up to the Himalayas for payload, but losing out in agility. The Apache will be less agile than the LCH but will take more hits and keep flying. Where the LCH will look to evade and survive, the Apache will turn to its armor.

2. Z-10 :

The Z-10 is already operational and in service with the PLA but very little is known about its operations after induction into service and the problems being encountered which is normal in a newly manufactured aircraft – every new aircraft needs a period of two to three years to stabilise. The LCH, on the other hand, is still in its final developmental stage and yet to become operational and enter service. However, going by the comparative analysis of the stated capabilities of both attack helicopters as brought out earlier in the article, the basic configuration and key specifications are almost similar. Even the design features related to the cockpit, avionics, sensor suites and weapons /armament package are similar barring the different types/ origin of equipment being used. The present engine of the Z-10, the WZ- 9 is, in fact, a liability, restricting the full exploitation of the combat potential of the helicopter. However, the development of the WZ-16 engine for the Z-10 is going to be a complete game changer, giving it enhanced weapon carriage capability( 16 missiles compared to the earlier 8) as well greater flexibility to operate in mountainous terrain. Its stated flyby-wire capability gives it a clear edge over the LCH as it reduces the load of the pilot, thereby facilitating efficient mission management. The main weapon of the AH is the Air-to-Ground Missile (ATGM) and the Chinese HJ-10 missile being comparable to the Hellfire is a very potent weapon with range of more than 7 km. The Helina anti-tank missile for equipping the Rudra and LCH is not likely to be ready in the near future, leaving a critical void in the capability of the above Indian armed/attack helicopters. The targeting systems in both AHs are electo-optical which have similar capability but if the MMW radar is installed on the Z-10 as claimed in the documents, it will give a distinct edge for multiple targeting even in adverse weather conditions, However, the MMW with the present technology needs a bigger platform like the Apache. This claim/development by the Chinese needs to be closely monitored. The only aspect where the LCH scores over the Z-10 is in its high altitude operations capability but this will only manifest itself once the LCH enters service and actually operates at these altitudes. Hence, based on the above facts in the overall analysis, presently, the Z-10 certainly has an edge over the LCH – however, this assessment could undergo a change once the LCH is fielded and justifies its stated claims.

Going by the way LCH was compared to AH-64 "Apache" if LCH is compared to Z-10 the hover performance is evaluated at altitudes varying from 0 ft (SL) to 25,000 ft. Altitudes in the Himalayan Mountains regularly require flights above 10,000 ft and often up to 22,000 ft. The data is presented for the LCH and the Z-10 for payload and available maximum ROC capability versus altitude. A threshold ROC line is shown for the reference 8 m/sec combat ROC. Notice how the sea-level performance of the LCH and the Z-10 are significantly different. The Z-10, with a 500 kg payload (not counting weapons and fuel) is able to generate a maximum vertical ROC capability of 3.6 m/sec. By comparison, at sea-level, the LCH is able to carry the 500 kg and is able to provide a power excess for a theoretical max ROC of 21 m/sec! Of course, this will not be allowed in reality. The LCH powertrain transmission limitations will bring that max ROC to about ~10 m/sec for structural safety reasons. Both helicopters are able to lift the 500 kg requirement at sea-level.

Now consider how the change in altitude affects both helicopters. The Z-10, trying to maintain the 500 kg payload, begins to tail-off its ROC capability from 3.6 m/sec at sea-level to 0 m/sec ROC at ~8,000 ft. Beyond 8,000 ft altitude, the Z-10 also cannot carry its 500 kg payload and the tail-off in that capacity is dramatic. The Z-10 cannot operate beyond 10,000 ft under any conditions.

The LCH, on the other hand, utilizes its light-weight structure to great effect. It can not only maintain the 500 kg payload for all altitudes from sea-level to the Himalayan mountain tops, the tail-off in the ROC does not drop below 8 m/sec until ~12,000 ft. The tail-off does not drop below the minimum 2.5 m/sec until ~19,000 ft. The LCH can fly, and fight, at all altitudes in the Himalayas.  Mi-35 performance numbers is because Pakistanis went for the Mi-35 option when the spanking-new Z-10s were on the table.

This shows that LCH is well above the cut than Z-10 in terms of maneuverability.

Comparison with other attack helicopters is shown above in the table based upon specifications. 

Since India envisions HAL LCH to be exported to other countries as well so , TAI/AgustaWestland T129, Euro-copter Tiger and Harbin Z-19 are some of the helicopters which can directly complete with HAL’s LCH in Light attack helicopter categories in Export market, but each helicopter has different technical parameters and its own set of technical advantages which will leave it to Users requirements to decide which Gunship will suit their needs . LCH specifically designed for support of ground troops at high altitudes will also find prospective customers in South America which have similar terrain, African countries too in lookout of cheaper attack helicopters can be potential clients along with Countries in Asia .

​Achievements :

Currently HAL is manufacturing SU-30 MKI, HAWK, DO-228, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Cheetah / Chetak / Cheetal Helicopters and pilotless target aircraft.  Besides it undertakes repairs and overhaul of these aircraft / helicopters and other aircraft like Jaguar, Mirage, Kiran, Mig-21, HS-748, AN-32.  HAL has taken up design and development of Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) and Basic Turboprop Trainer (HTT-40).  Co-development of Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) and Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA) with Russia is also under progress.

The basic achievement of LCH programme was to cater to IAF and Indian Army needs for a dedicated attack helicopter which can operate at high altitudes like Himalayas which act as a border between India and Pakistan-China with which India has hostile relations and has fought wars as well. The development of ecosystem for helicopter development with HAL successful development of HAL Dhruva was successfully utilized in development of HAL LCH by using some of the advanced developmental procedures to develop the HAL LCH. Also, a need has been felt to increase the numbers beyond the present two squadron strength to cater for the current employment philosophy in support of the Cold Start Doctrine which India has been allegedly planning against Pakistan for which attack helicopters need to be an integral part.

Speaking to Mathrubhumi, Dr M Vijaya Kumar, Executive Director, Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre, HAL said that the fourth technology demonstrator (TD-4) is very close to the delivery standards. “The IOC is expected any time now and the first limited series production (LSP) copter should be coming out by 2018.” says Dr Kumar. He said the production drawings for LSP have been finalised.

Part of a handout brochure on the day of the inaugural flight :

HAL LCH by standards is one of the best attack helicopters and not a low-end solution to "what a desperate air force and army needs" as is claimed by some. Its high maneuverability coupled with ability to operate at high altitudes and rugged conditions with an impressive EW suite makes it one of the most formidable weapons platform in India. HAL start work on it from 3rd October 2006 and the design and development of LCH, and completed the task over a 24-month period. They reduced its weight from 5 ton to 2.5 ton to achieve grant it the caption of light helicopter. For India it is a military-marvel after LCA Tejas with which India has ushered in a new area of military modernization as well as self-reliance as this will pave way for development for future developments. HAL has committed to "Make-in-India" drive as HAL has finalised a major plan to manufacture nearly 1,000 military helicopters and over a hundred planes, in tune with government's focus on speeding up defence indigenisation. "We are going to build around 1,000 helicopters including Kamov 226, LCH (Light Combat Helicopter) ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) in the next 10 years," HAL Chairman and Managing Director T Suvarna Raju  told PTI in an interview.

What’s the most important thing to develop a technology/ product? Different peoples have different opinions some may say money, someone may find human resource is the most important thing. Yes all these are very important but one thing stood up above all these that is the research and test facilities; these are the most important thing to develop anything.

HAL well utilised the ecosystem already started with Dhruv in development of HAL LCH. The ecosystem started with HAL LCH now will be well continued by future plans forthwith.

​In Service :

On 26th August 2017 HAL LCH was dedicated to nation by Defence Minister Arun Jaitley. The mass production of LCH started in full swing. An initial order of 15 units was given.

​With Light Combat Helicopter India and HAL has established itself as a major player in aviation industry. HAL played well in development of LCH catering to the armed forces demands in making a combat helicopter much above the world standards and capable to wreak havoc on enemy hardware and defend itself with much survivability features in hostile environment. Its composite airframe makes it light,durable yet sturdy and well armoured comparing to any helicopter gunship of 21st century era.

Myanmar Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing checking the India's HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) :

 
Specifications :-

Length : 15.8 metres
Main rotor diameter : 13.3 metres
Height : 4.7 metres
Weight (empty) : 2250 kg
Weight (maximum take off) : 5800 kg
Maximum speed: 265 Kmph
Range: 550 Km
Service Ceiling: 6.5 km
Climb rate: 5 m/s

HAL Light Combat Aircraft Enthralling Pictures :-

References :-
1. Wikipedia
2. Military Factory
3. Military Today
4. Army Technology
4. India Strategic
5. www.oneindia.com
6. LiveFist Defence
7. thestrategictimes.com
​8. http://www.hal-india.com/Common/Uploads/TabbedContentTemplate/1_Down_Combined_brochures.pdf
9. Trishul Trident
10. http://thebetacoefficient.blogspot.com/2015/04/why-apache-is-brute-and-lch-is-elegant.html
11.http://thebetacoefficient.blogspot.com/2015/04/why-lch-is-sports-car-compared-to.html
12. aermech.in
13. Defence Forum India
14. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited ( HAL )
15. https://www.safran-helicopter-engines.com/engine-partnerships/partnerships/shakti/shakti
16. https://thaimilitaryandasianregion.wordpress.com/2015/10/30/hal-light-combat-helicopter-lch-india/
17. Janes
18. Elbit
19. Various Indian Media Outlets
20. idrw.org
21. IADN / Deb Rana
22. Indian Defence Review
23.CLAWS Research Team
24.IDN-Takes
25.Deagel
26.DRDO official website.
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