In a remarkable moment at the ongoing Aero India Show, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, personally took to the skies in the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH). The air chief’s flight in the indigenous helicopter showcased the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) continued focus on indigenization and operational versatility in rotary-wing platforms.
Following the flight, Air Chief Marshal Singh expressed his satisfaction with the helicopter’s flying experience and overall performance. The LUH, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is part of India’s broader initiative to modernize its helicopter fleet with cutting-edge technology while promoting self-reliance under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.
The Light Utility Helicopter is a multi-role platform designed for high-altitude missions, capable of performing reconnaissance, surveillance, rescue operations, and logistics support across diverse terrains. Its agility, advanced avionics, and operational efficiency make it a crucial addition to the IAF’s fleet, especially in challenging Himalayan regions.
The Chief of Air Staff lauded HAL for its engineering excellence and highlighted the LUH’s potential to significantly enhance the IAF’s operational capabilities. His hands-on experience and positive feedback underscore the confidence of the Indian Air Force in indigenous aerospace platforms, reaffirming the country’s commitment to bolstering domestic defence manufacturing.
The Aero India Show continues to draw global attention with its display of cutting-edge aviation technology, live demonstrations, and strategic collaborations in the defence sector.
