Prachand Helicopter Unveiled for the First Time. This helicopter can operate at an altitude of 16,400 feet and can carry weapons along with six soldiers.
Defence News: The Indian Army is soon going to induct 156 Prachand helicopters into its fleet. This helicopter is specially designed for operations in high-altitude areas like Siachen, Ladakh, and Arunachal Pradesh. Prachand is the world's only attack helicopter capable of flying at an altitude of 16,400 feet, or 5,000 meters. It is designed for troop movement, high-altitude defense, and HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) operations in high-altitude areas.
Capabilities of the Prachand Helicopter and Benefits for Soldiers
The Prachand helicopter is capable of carrying six soldiers at a time. Each soldier can carry up to 20 kg of battery load or essential equipment with them. This helicopter is highly capable in both takeoff and landing. It is being inducted into the army fleet to replace the older Chetak and Cheetah helicopters. These older helicopters often met with accidents and presented various challenges in operations.
The Prachand helicopter has been tested in areas with varying altitudes. It is equipped with modern sensors and cameras, which enable it to easily land and take off in high-altitude areas. Its special feature is that it can operate even at an altitude of 20,000 feet.
Technology and High Altitude Operations
The Prachand is equipped with high-tech equipment. It uses a sensor and camera system to monitor the surrounding area. This helicopter can fire air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles. Its 20mm gun is capable of damaging enemy defenses. In addition, it can carry rockets and other weapons.
The Prachand has also proven its capability in forward areas of Siachen, such as Sonam Post. The technology it incorporates makes it ideal for operations in high-altitude areas. The missiles can be launched directly through the sensors installed in the helicopter.
Safety and Reduction in Accidents
There have been many accidents involving older Chetak and Cheetah helicopters. The Prachand helicopter is designed to be safe and reliable when operating at high altitudes. This will reduce the risk in army operations and increase the safety of soldiers.
In addition, the technology and air system of the Prachand helicopter are capable of destroying enemy air defenses. This helicopter can monitor 360 degrees and launch an immediate counter-attack if needed.
Strategic Importance on the India-China Border
The main objective of the Prachand helicopter is for deployment on the India-China border. This helicopter can operate on forward posts along the LoC (Line of Control) and can quickly transport soldiers and weapons. It is equipped with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, making it easy to defeat the enemy's defense system.
The Indian Army has already deployed 15 Prachand helicopters. In the coming times, this number will increase to 156. This helicopter has proven its operational capability in high-altitude areas like the Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.
Make in India and Self-Reliant India Initiative
The Prachand helicopter has been completely manufactured under the Make in India and Self-Reliant India initiative. This has not only increased self-reliance in defense equipment but has also provided the Indian Air Force and Army with modern and effective helicopters.
This helicopter will give a new direction to India's defense capability. It will be used for troop deployment on the border, high-altitude operations, and aerial surveillance.
Key Features of the Prachand Helicopter
- Capability to take off and land at high altitudes.
- Capacity to carry six soldiers along.
- Can carry up to 20 kg of battery load.
- Air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.
- 20mm gun and rocket system.
- 360-degree surveillance by modern sensors and cameras.
- Capable of high-altitude warfare and operations at LoC forward posts.
