Indian Light Combat Helicopter to Receive Indigenous Electronic Warfare Upgrade by DRDO

The Indian Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand is slated to be equipped with a completely indigenous electronic warfare (EW) suite, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This new system will replace the currently employed Saab Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (IDAS), highlighting India's commitment to reducing reliance on foreign military technology and bolstering its defense self-sufficiency.

Previously, the LCH operated with Saab’s South African-origin IDAS, which provided threat detection against radar, missiles, and lasers, as well as automatic deployment of countermeasures. While effective, depending on imported systems has imposed strategic limitations, especially in sensitive and high-risk situations. The newly developed EW suite by DRDO aims to mitigate these concerns with advanced indigenous solutions specifically designed to meet the needs of the Indian military.

The new suite will comprise radar warning receivers, laser warning systems, missile approach warning components, and countermeasure dispensing units. These components will be integrated into the LCH’s avionics to offer robust protection against threats such as radar-guided missiles and infrared-guided weapons, including man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS).

Alongside the EW upgrade, the LCH will also incorporate a Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system, currently under development in India. DIRCM employs laser-based technology to deflect incoming heat-seeking missiles, thereby enhancing the helicopter's survivability. The production of around 180 DIRCM units is planned for the 2026–2027 timeframe, with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) spearheading the domestic initiative.

This technological enhancement not only improves survivability but also ensures the LCH remains effective in high-altitude conflict zones, such as India’s northern borders, where it has already been deployed. With the Indian armed forces preparing to operate a fleet of 156 LCH Prachand helicopters, the addition of a native EW suite offers significant strategic and logistical advantages in the long term.

The move aligns with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which promotes indigenous defense manufacturing to cut down on imports. DRDO’s tailored approach ensures the system meets specific operational needs, particularly relevant to mountain warfare and network-centric operations.

As DRDO progresses with integration and testing, the LCH’s capabilities are set to advance, combining indigenous electronic protection with enhanced combat agility. This development marks a significant milestone in India's pursuit of technological autonomy in modern warfare.