Why Prachand Isn’t Weak Without Missiles

Описание: Why Prachand Isn’t Weak Without Missiles

India has already placed an order for 156 units of the LCH Prachand, but one question keeps surfacing — why is the anti-tank missile not integrated yet?

According to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the roadmap is clear. By 2026–27, Helina and Dhruvastra will be fully integrated onto Prachand. This is a planned, phased capability rollout — not a delay-driven compromise.

Crucially, this does not mean Prachand is ineffective today. The helicopter’s 20-mm main cannon is fully operational, unguided rocket systems have already been tested, and its core combat role — high-altitude, close-support, and rapid strike missions — is intact.

Deliveries are expected to begin around 2028, giving sufficient time for missile integration, user trials, and doctrine refinement. This mirrors how many advanced platforms worldwide enter service — guns and rockets first, precision weapons later.

One lesser-known but critical feature: LCH Prachand is designed to operate in nuclear-contaminated environments, highlighting its role in high-intensity conflict scenarios, not just counter-insurgency.

In short, Prachand is not an incomplete platform.
It is a phased, doctrinally aligned attack helicopter — growing into its full strike role on schedule.

#LCHPrachand #IndianArmy #AttackHelicopter #Helina #Dhruvastra #DefenseAnalysis #TheFiscalDiaries