IAF Bets on Indigenous LCH Prachand to Replace Mi-35, Ending Apache Imports

In a major step toward self-reliance in defence, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to retire its ageing fleet of Soviet-origin Mi-35 Hind attack helicopters by the 2030s and replace them with the homegrown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand. This move not only signals a shift in operational priorities but also strengthens India's commitment to indigenous defence production.

The Mi-35, a veteran helicopter in the IAF’s arsenal, has served since the 1980s. Known for its heavy armor, troop-carrying capability, and powerful weapon systems, the Mi-35 has been a reliable platform for close air support and anti-tank missions. However, with time and changing warfare needs, its relevance has begun to fade.

To keep the Mi-35s flying until their retirement, the IAF is currently undertaking a major refurbishment programme in collaboration with Russia. This will help extend the life of the fleet through the rest of this decade. But the future clearly lies with the newer and lighter LCH Prachand.

Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the LCH Prachand represents a modern, agile, and high-altitude capable attack helicopter specifically designed to operate in India’s demanding terrain. Though smaller than the Mi-35 — with a maximum take-off weight of 5.8 tons compared to the Mi-35’s 11.5 tons — the Prachand offers exceptional maneuverability, especially in mountainous regions like Ladakh.

One of the most significant aspects of this transition is the IAF’s decision to halt further imports of the American AH-64E Apache helicopters beyond the 22 units already in service. These were inducted between 2019 and 2021. By choosing the Prachand over additional Apaches, the IAF is clearly prioritising indigenous capability over foreign procurement.

An IAF official explained that the LCH Prachand is set to become the largest attack helicopter type in the IAF’s inventory, underlining the level of confidence in its performance and future potential. This marks a clear endorsement of India’s efforts to develop world-class defence technology within the country.

The LCH is not just lighter but smarter. It is equipped with advanced sensors, a 20mm nose-mounted cannon, rockets, and both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including the Mistral 2 and India’s own Dhruvastra. It also features stealth design elements, modern avionics, and high survivability, making it highly suitable for present-day combat environments.

The government has already begun inducting 15 Limited Series Production units of the LCH — 10 for the Air Force and 5 for the Army. But the real boost will come with the expected clearance of a large-scale procurement of 156 LCH units: 114 for the Army and 42 for the Air Force. Once approved, this order will place the LCH Prachand at the heart of India’s future combat helicopter fleet.

The gradual replacement of the Mi-35 with the LCH Prachand is not just about retiring old equipment — it's about adopting a new strategy. The IAF is looking to future warfare, where speed, precision, adaptability, and self-sufficiency are more critical than brute force alone. And the Prachand fits this vision perfectly.

By choosing an indigenous solution over additional foreign imports, the IAF is not only modernising its fleet but also sending a strong message: India’s skies will increasingly be guarded by machines built in India, for India.