The indigenous attack helicopter LCH (Light Combat Helicopter) successfully test-fired 70mm rockets during prestigious Fire Power Demonstration (FPD) of Indian Air Force, the Iron Fist 2016 on March 18 at the Pokhran firing range, Rajasthan to carry out certification firing trials.

The event was witnessed by the President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cabinet ministers and political leaders, and the entire military brass. Also present were the air attachés of various countries.

After successful completion of basic performance flight testing and trials for cold & hot weather and hot & high altitude testing in 2015, the LCH achieved another milestone by satisfactorily firing FZ 70mm rockets with FZ90 wrap around rocket motors, from its prototype TD-3 in weaponised configuration.

LCH is based on the existing Dhruv advanced light helicopters, made by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is equipped with FZ rocket system 2.75”/70mm including up to four FZ231 12-tube rocket launchers and associated firing control system.

India plans to start production of LCH in 2017 to provide its defence forces with an attack helicopter. A total of 179 of the LCH are on order — 114 for the Army aviation and 65 for the IAF.