Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has awarded a contract valued at ₹184.25 crore to BEML Limited for the production and supply of fuselage Aerostructures for the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, Capital Market reported.

This marks a significant development in the indigenous combat helicopter program, reinforcing HAL’s commitment to strengthening India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

BEML confirmed that the order encompasses the manufacture and delivery of critical fuselage structures that form the backbone of the LCH airframe. These Aerostructures are essential for ensuring the helicopter’s operational reliability in high-altitude combat environments, where the Prachand has already demonstrated unique capabilities unmatched by most attack helicopters globally.

The Light Combat Helicopter Prachand is designed for deployment in diverse operational theatres, including mountainous terrain and high-altitude battle zones. Its fuselage Aerostructures must withstand extreme stress and environmental conditions, making the contract a crucial step in sustaining the fleet’s long-term combat readiness. HAL’s decision to entrust BEML with this responsibility highlights the company’s proven expertise in precision engineering and defence-grade manufacturing.

BEML is a Schedule A enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, operating across three major verticals: defence and aerospace, mining and construction, and rail and metro. Its role in the LCH program further consolidates its position as a key contributor to India’s defence industrial base.

The company has previously supported HAL in supplying ground support equipment and aerospace components, and this new contract expands its footprint in advanced helicopter manufacturing.

The Prachand fleet has been steadily expanding since its induction in 2022. Armed with a chin-mounted cannon, rockets, anti-tank guided missiles, and air-to-air missiles, it is tailored for high-altitude warfare and close air support missions.

The integration of BEML-manufactured fuselage Aerostructures will ensure that HAL can maintain production schedules and meet the operational demands of the Indian Army and Air Force.

This contract also aligns with the broader objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, India’s self-reliance initiative in defence manufacturing.

By engaging BEML, HAL is reinforcing indigenous capability and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers for critical aerospace components. The partnership between HAL and BEML is expected to enhance synergy across India’s defence sector, ensuring that the Prachand program remains future-ready.

The award of this ₹184 crore contract represents not only a boost to BEML’s defence portfolio but also a strategic milestone in India’s combat helicopter production ecosystem. It underscores the importance of collaboration between public sector enterprises in advancing national defence preparedness.

Agencies