The Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) 3t Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) has achieved initial operational clearance (IOC) from the Indian army.
The IOC milestone was announced at the Aero India event in Bengaluru on 5 February, according to HAL.
To obtain the IOC, the LUH had to pass a series of tests including flight tests in hot and cold conditions, as well as trials at various altitudes and temperatures.
Powered by a single Safran Helicopter Engines Ardiden 1U, the LUH is capable of Himalayan operations. The model will replace ageing HAL-built Cheetah and Cheetak services operated by India’s military.
HAL is in the process of integrating and flight-testing mission systems for the LUH.
