Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has secured two major contracts from the Ministry of Defence worth Rs 62,700 crore. Signed on March 28, 2025, these agreements involve the supply of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Prachand, along with training and associated equipment. The first contract covers 66 LCHs for the Indian Air Force (IAF), while the second includes 90 helicopters for the Indian Army.
The delivery of these helicopters will begin in the third year and continue over five years, significantly enhancing the combat capabilities of India’s armed forces, especially in high-altitude regions. The LCH, designed and developed indigenously, is capable of operating at altitudes above 5,000 meters. With over 65% indigenous content, this initiative supports India’s vision for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. More than 250 domestic companies, mainly MSMEs, will contribute to the project, generating over 8,500 direct and indirect jobs.
In another significant move, the Ministry of Defence has also signed a contract with Metrea Management for wet leasing one Flight Refueling Aircraft (FRA). The KC-135 aircraft will be used to train pilots of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy in air-to-air refueling. Metrea is expected to provide the FRA within six months, marking the first wet-leased refueling aircraft for the IAF.
With these agreements, the total number of defense contracts signed in the fiscal year 2024-25 has reached 193, amounting to over Rs 2,09,050 crore. This is the highest-ever procurement by the Ministry of Defence, nearly doubling the previous record. Out of these, 177 contracts (92%) have been awarded to domestic industries, amounting to Rs 1,68,922 crore (81% of the total value). These landmark agreements underscore India’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and boosting indigenous production.
