Indian Army To Phase Out Cheetah And Chetak Helicopters In Next Three To Four Years; To Be Replaced By Indigenous LUH

The Indian Army is gearing up to replace its aging Chetak and Cheetah helicopters with the indigenously-made Light Utility Helicopters (LUH) and potentially other helicopters through leasing arrangements in the next three to four years, reported Indian Express.

This entire replacement process is expected to span 10-12 years, according to officials familiar with the matter.

An official familiar with the modernisation plans stated that the army requires 250 light helicopters for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

While they intend to procure LUH, they also acknowledge the need to explore alternative means due to the limitation in production capacities of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The technical life of the Chetak and Cheetah fleet is approaching its end within the next three to four years. These helicopters have been crucial assets for the Indian Armed Forces.

The official elaborated on their approach, saying, "We are looking at a couple of other options such as leasing a few helicopters for a few years. Subsequently, if HAL can manufacture the numbers required, we might go for that too."

However, the primary focus remains on acquiring indigenous helicopters for the armed forces.

Approximately four months ago, the army issued a request for Information (RFI) for leasing helicopters, and they have received multiple responses.

The army is currently in the process of evaluating these responses, and once completed, it will proceed with a request for proposal and other necessary procedures. The official expressed optimism about the possibility of leasing a certain number of helicopters in the future.

Regarding the LUH, officials mentioned that it has been equipped with an autopilot system, which is undergoing trials.

The first batch of these helicopters is anticipated to be delivered by December 2024, with an annual production of 30-35 units expected for all three services.

The official noted that Cheetah helicopters are currently the only ones operated at the Siachen glacier, and they are performing well without significant issues.

However, the LUH offers several advantages, being 25-30 per cent better than the Cheetah in terms of load-carrying capacity, particularly in high-altitude regions.

In terms of additional helicopter inductions, one squadron of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) has already been raised for the Army, and the delivery of the remaining helicopters is scheduled to commence in 18-20 months.

The Army plans to acquire 90 LCH, which will share weapon components with the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH)-WSI, known as Rudra.

Additionally, the Army is preparing to induct six Apache attack helicopters from the United States in the early part of next year as part of a deal signed in February 2020.

These helicopters are intended for deployment along the western borders, complementing the Indian Air Force's existing fleet of 22 Apache helicopters.