The Indian Air Force’s light combat helicopter (LCH) to feature Thales 2.75in rocket launchers. Credit: Venkat Mangudi.

Thales has been awarded a contract by India-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 2.75in (70mm) 12-tube rocket launchers.

Under the contract, the French aerospace and defence company is required to deliver a total of 135 launchers to equip the Indian Armed Forces’ multi-role attack helicopters.

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The launchers will be integrated on to the Indian Army’s 18 Advanced Light Helicopters and the airforce’s 15 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) to boost the tactical capabilities of the platforms.

Each helicopter will receive four fully certified, combat-proven, 2.75in rocket launchers. Last year, the Thales system was tested for qualification on the LCH.

Furthermore, Thales will also deliver fire control capability and the T100 sighting system.

“This new collaboration between Thales and HAL in the field of air-launched weaponry opens up new opportunities for the supply of equipment to the Indian Armed Forces.”

The partnership between the companies dates back more than 50 years. It has seen the supply of the first upgraded Mirage 2000 and supply of Thales avionics equipment for use on HAL designed platforms.

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Thales India vice-president and country director Emmanuel de Roquefeuil said: “This new collaboration between Thales and HAL in the field of air-launched weaponry opens up new opportunities for the supply of equipment to the Indian Armed Forces, and consolidates Thales’s position in the Indian market.

“With this, helicopter crews will see a significant improvement in their tactical capabilities during missions.”

Manufactured using composite material, Thales’ 2.75in rocket launchers are 50% lighter when compared with metal launchers.

The corrosion-free launchers provide precision and reliability and optimum support to the Indian Armed Forces when conducting operations in remote theatres.