HAL partners with Adani defence systems and BEML for production of Light Combat Helicopter - The HinduPublished - August 14, 2026 07:09 pm IST - BengaluruUnder the agreements, the BEML and Adani Defence will manufacture 48 and 42 fuselage structures, respectively. | Photo Credit: FILE PHOTOThe Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has tied up with Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited and Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) for manufacturing fuselage structures for the Prachand Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).Under the agreements, the BEML and Adani Defence will manufacture 48 and 42 fuselage structures, respectively.“This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening India’s aerospace ecosystem. For the first time, the private industry is being integrated into the production of helicopter fuselage structures. This partnership will expand capacity, strengthen the domestic supply chain and contribute to enhancing indigenous aerospace manufacturing capabilities,” said Ravi K., Chairman and Managing Director, HAL.The HAL said that it has augmented the capacity and already commenced production of the 156 Prachand LCHs ordered for the Indian Armed Forces at its new helicopter manufacturing facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka.The defence PSU said that the establishment of two additional production lines will further enhance overall manufacturing capability for the LCH programme and support the timely delivery of the helicopters to the Indian Armed Forces. “The expanded industrial base is also expected to create opportunities for a wider network of Indian MSMEs, component manufacturers and aerospace suppliers, contributing to the development of specialised capabilities and strengthening the domestic aerospace supply chain,” it said.The LCH is a 5.5 tonne class combat helicopter designed and developed by the HAL, and the PSU has an order for manufacturing helicopters to the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.The helicopter features a narrow fuselage and tandem configuration for Pilot and Co-pilot/Weapon System Operator (WSO). It incorporates a number of stealth features such as reduced radar and infra-red signatures and crashworthy landing gear for better survivability. The LCH incorporates advanced technologies and is designed to carry out roles such as destruction of enemy air defence, counter insurgency, search and rescue, antitank, counter surface force operations, etc.Published - August 14, 2026 07:09 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }