Angle of Attack: Second LCH prototype by AeroIndia 2011
Angle of Attack has learnt that the second prototype of the ambitious Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) program could be displayed during Aero India 2011. At present HAL is racing against time to finish the second prototype which will be weaponized. Since the first prototype was not a weaponized aircraft the second prototype will have more sub-systems thus there could be a delay. If the second prototype doesn't make it to the Aero-India which will be held in mid February than it could be unveiled possible by mid 2011.
The second prototype will play a crucial role in development of the aircraft as it will be used for weapons testing which is not possible on the first prototype. First prototype is currently being used to test the aircrafts basic design, flight performance and payload simulation. It as logged 50hrs of flight time and is currently undergoing routine maintenance and will resume testing very soon.
LCH will form the backbone of India's weak attack helicopter armory once it enters service by 2012-13. Currently there is firm order of 179 from the Army and the Air-force which could go up. Angle of Attack wishes all the best to HAL and everybody else involved in the LCH program.
Angle of Attack has learnt that the second prototype of the ambitious Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) program could be displayed during Aero India 2011. At present HAL is racing against time to finish the second prototype which will be weaponized. Since the first prototype was not a weaponized aircraft the second prototype will have more sub-systems thus there could be a delay. If the second prototype doesn't make it to the Aero-India which will be held in mid February than it could be unveiled possible by mid 2011.
The second prototype will play a crucial role in development of the aircraft as it will be used for weapons testing which is not possible on the first prototype. First prototype is currently being used to test the aircrafts basic design, flight performance and payload simulation. It as logged 50hrs of flight time and is currently undergoing routine maintenance and will resume testing very soon.
LCH will form the backbone of India's weak attack helicopter armory once it enters service by 2012-13. Currently there is firm order of 179 from the Army and the Air-force which could go up. Angle of Attack wishes all the best to HAL and everybody else involved in the LCH program.


