IAF to order more advanced light combat copters

Ajay Banerjee

New Delhi, April 15

Impressed with the performance of the armed version of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), the Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to buy more such copters for high-altitude operations in the Himalayas and the desert sector on the western front.

The copter, which is called the ALH Mark-IV version and is known by its military name ‘Rudra’, was used in Eastern Ladakh during the stand-off with China. The IAF has one squadron of 14 to 16 copters and is looking to get at least three more squadrons. The Army also operates the ‘Rudra’.

A senior functionary told The Tribune that “more Rudra are being purchased and a case is being moved to the Ministry of Defence”. The copter did “very well” in the sub-sector north (SSN) — the military name for high-altitude plateau and sensitive Depsang plateau in Northern Ladakh, the functionary added.

Helipads in these locations are at an altitude of more than 15,000 ft.

Produced by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the copters are adapted for high altitudes and powered by ‘shakti engines’ that can take it to 20,000 ft. The engine is designed and made under a joint venture between Safran of France and the HAL.

The weapon fitment on ALH Mk-IV includes a 20 mm turret gun, 70 mm rocket pods and air-to-air missile. The copter is expected to be equipped with the newly made anti-tank missile, Helina.

The copter can be used for anti-tank warfare and close air support for ground troops. The maximum take-off weight of the helicopter is 5,500 kg and it can carry a payload of 2,600 kg.

The helicopter has multifunctional displays and an automatic flight control system for pilots.

‘Rudra’ can fly up to 20,000 ft

• Advanced Light Helicopter is produced by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
• It is called the ALH Mark-IV version and is known by its military name ‘Rudra’
• The copters are adapted for high altitudes and powered by ‘shakti engines’ that can take it to 20,000 ft
• The engine is designed and made under a joint venture between Safran and HAL