The Indian Air Force (IAF), impressed with the performance of the armed variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), plans to purchase additional of the copters for high-altitude missions in the Himalayas and the desert area on the western front.
Here are some key points about the Rudra attack helicopter:
- Role: The Rudra is designed for close air support, anti-tank warfare, reconnaissance, and combat operations. It is capable of engaging targets on the ground and providing fire support to ground forces.
- Armament: The Rudra is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a chin-mounted 20mm cannon, rocket pods, and anti-tank guided missiles. It can carry a combination of these weapons to engage both armored and soft targets.
- Avionics and Systems: The Rudra incorporates advanced avionics and systems for enhanced situational awareness and combat capabilities. It features a modern glass cockpit, mission systems, electro-optical sensors, and a targeting system for accurate weapon delivery.
- Upgrades and Customization: The Rudra can be customized to suit specific mission requirements. It can be fitted with additional systems and equipment, such as helmet-mounted displays, electronic warfare suites, and advanced sensors, depending on the operational needs of the Indian Air Force.
- Indigenous Development: The Rudra is a product of indigenous development efforts in India. It represents the country’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities and reduce reliance on imported platforms.
It’s important to note that plans for defense acquisitions can evolve over time, and the exact number and delivery timeline of Rudra helicopters for the Indian Air Force may have changed since my last update. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on the acquisition plans and progress of the Rudra attack helicopters, I recommend referring to official statements from the Indian Air Force or the Indian Ministry of Defence, or reputable news sources that cover defense and aviation news in India.
The IAF currently has one squadron of 14 to 16 helicopters and plans to add at least three more. The ‘Rudra’ is also used by the army. “More Rudra are being purchased,” a senior official told The Tribune, “and a case is being moved to the Ministry of Defence.” The copter performed “exceptionally well” in the sub-sector north (SSN) — the military term for Northern Ladakh’s high-altitude plateau and sensitive Depsang plateau. The helipads in these sites are over 15,000 feet above sea level. The copters, which are made by the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are designed for high altitudes and are powered by’shakti engines’ that can take them up to 20,000 feet. A cooperative venture between Safran of France and HAL designed and manufactured the engine.
The ALH Mk-IV is equipped with a 20 mm turret cannon, 70 mm rocket pods, and an air-to-air missile. The Helina anti-tank missile is scheduled to be installed on the helicopter. The helicopter can be employed for anti-tank ωɑɾʄɑɾε and ground troop close air support. The helicopter’s maximum take-off weight is 5,500 kg, and it can carry a payload of 2,600 kg. For pilots, the helicopter incorporates multifunctional displays as well as an autonomous flight control system.
‘Rudra’ can go up to 20,000 feet in the air.
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
HAL had previously announced that the Indian Navy would purchase 60 sophisticated light helicopters. According to defence sources, the Navy issued wide requirements to HAL in January for the acquisition of 60 utility helicopters based on the ALH for maritime operations, based on the recommendations of a joint study with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in October.
