At Aero India 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has showcased its indigenous products and technologies, with the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) taking centre stage. The event, centered around the theme "Innovate. Collaborate. Lead," will commence on February 10 at Airforce Station Yelahanka.
HAL's indigenously designed and developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) is the star attraction at Aero India 2025. The LUH is designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, and light transport. It is capable of flying at 220 kmph, with a service ceiling of 6.5 km and a range of 350 km with a 400 kg payload. The LUH is powered by a TM/HAL Ardiden 1U/Shakti 1U single turbo shaft engine.
The Army is enhancing its ability to operate in demanding terrains with the induction of the LUH, which is gradually replacing the ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. The first six are being delivered in phases between December 2024 and June 2025, strengthening reconnaissance and logistical operations at high altitudes.
LUH, garnered significant attention at Aero India 2025 for its manoeuvres and indigenous development. LUH is being produced at its 'Bidare Kavalu Sandra' a PSU facility in the Tumkur district, near Bangalore, utilising 100% indigenous technology.
It has advanced features and has been successfully tested in the Himalayas.
The helicopter is lightweight, flexible, and crashworthy, designed for both sea-level and high-altitude operations. It can perform missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, troop transport, and armed roles. It weighs under 2000 kg and has a maximum cruise speed of 235 km per hour with a capacity of six seats.
The LUH is powered by a single 750 KW rated Shakti-1U turboshaft engine and equipped with a glass cockpit featuring a Smart Cockpit Display System (SCDS). It is designed for various missions, including troop transport, cargo movement, and search-and-rescue.
The helicopter can accommodate two pilots and six passengers and carry cargoes of up to 1 ton externally.
HAL designed the LUH to replace the Cheetah and Chetak helicopters used by the Indian armed forces. It integrates state-of-the-art technologies and systems. The helicopter is capable of flying at altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet.
HAL has set a production target of over 1,000 LUH helicopters in the next two decades.
Eight LUHs were part of the air displays at Aero India 2025.
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