Light Combat Helicopter clears hot weather trials

Jodhpur, June 27

The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)–3, a versatile combat chopper developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has successfully completed the hot weather flight trials in Jodhpur.

The chopper, at present under a testing phase, cleared the test yesterday, paving the way for the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC). It is likely to enter production from 2017-18.

“The week-long test flight schedule of the LCH was carried out in the temperature range of 39 to 42°C,” said an IAF official.

The third technology demonstrator (TD-3) of LCH was ferried from Bengaluru to Jodhpur for the trials. Pilots from the Indian Air Force and the Army, along with the representatives of certification teams, were present during the trial. — PTI