HAL to jointly develop FCAS for light combat helicopter with APPH, UK

Bangalore: The Lucknow-based Accessories Division of the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), and APPH, UK, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the joint development of flight control actuator systems (FCAS) for its Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) programme. The LCH is a derivative of HAL's Dhruv advanced light helicopter (ALH) programme.

APPH, part of the BBA Aviation Group, designs and manufactures hydraulic systems and landing gears for aircraft and counts the world's leading aircraft manufacturer's amongst its clients.

The LCH is a prototype combat helicopter currently being developed by HAL for use by the Indian Army. The LCH is designed to fit into an anti-infantry and anti-armor role.

HAL has already selected the M621 cannon, incorporated in a Nexter THL 20 turret, as the main gun armament of the helicopter to be operated by a helmet mounted sight.