Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar inaugurated a new structural assembly line for the Prachand Light Combat Helicopter at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s helicopter factory in Tumkur, Karnataka. An Automated Storage and Retrieval System was also launched during the event, which was attended by senior officials including HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil, Joint Secretary Aero Manisha Chandra, and other key representatives from HAL and the Ministry of Defence.

The Tumkur facility is a modern greenfield unit established to manufacture the Light Utility Helicopter and Prachand LCH, with provisions for upcoming programs such as the Indian Multi Role Helicopter and the Deck based Multi Role Helicopter. During his visit, the Defence Production Secretary reviewed ongoing projects, interacted with HAL leadership, and expressed satisfaction with the progress. He also toured the LUH production unit, the LCH equipping hangar, and the automated storage system.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited HAL and flew in the Prachand LCH, gaining firsthand experience of its agility, readiness, and operational capabilities. The indigenously developed helicopter is designed for high altitude missions and significantly strengthens India’s combat potential.

On 29 March, General Dwivedi also witnessed the Integrated Air Defence Firepower exercise at the Army Air Defence College in Gopalpur, Odisha. The exercise showcased coordinated operations of multiple air defence systems in a networked setup and validated their response to hybrid aerial threats. Following the demonstration, the Army Chief commended the personnel for their dedication and encouraged them to maintain excellence in modern warfare. The Army’s public relations team later shared his appreciation on X, highlighting his praise for the Air Defence personnel’s commitment to enhancing national security.