IAF, Army LUH Helicopters May Hit Skies Soon as Certification Nears, Delivery Possible by March 2026

Two major technical problems that had put the Light Utility Helicopter or LUH on “hold” are on the verge if being solved. This is a major development as the Indian Air Force or IAF wanted six helicopters

initially, as did the Army. The goal was to replace the ageing Cheetah and Chetak choppers with them.The LUH asked for by the IAF and also, the Army, had two major problems:a. The Flight Control System, being imported, was an issue. b. There were problems related to the landing equipment.Now, there is light at the end of the tunnel with the FCS and it could be up for certification by December. There is also progress on the indigenous FCS system, highly placed sources said.The other problem related to landing issues and once again, it is close to being resolved. If both are certified by December, then, delivery can be considered by late March -- the end of the financial year.The LUH production line is in place. And the certification will ensure swift activation of the production line.

Six helicopters for the Coast Guard

A proposal for six ALH Dhruv helicopters for the Coast Guard is under discussion. This is in keeping with the Coast Guard’s mandate of active involvement in checking piracy and illegal fishing and also, rescue operations.