India on Friday announced a $7.3 billion deal to purchase 156 locally made light combat Prachand helicopters for its air force and the army — part of its ongoing push to be self-reliant on defence.
The country's first locally designed and developed combat helicopter will be produced at the country's largest helicopter factory, opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2023.
"This decision marks a major boost to India's combat capabilities and self-reliance," defence minister Rajnath Singh said on X. "This is indeed a proud moment for India's Make in India journey."
His ministry said it had signed contracts with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
"The supply of these helicopters shall commence from the third year and will be spread over the next five years", the ministry said, without giving specific dates.
The new aircraft will "enhance the combat capability of armed forces at high altitudes," it added.
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