Indian Army to Induct Modern Light Helicopters, Phasing Out Chetak and Cheetah Fleet

National News: The Ministry of Defence announced on Friday that the Indian Army is set to retire its long-serving Chetak and Cheetah helicopters, replacing them with a new generation of modern light helicopters. The upgrade is expected to significantly strengthen the operational capabilities of both the Army and the Air Force.

Plan for 200 Advanced Helicopters

A Request for Information (RFI) has been issued for the acquisition of 200 Reconnaissance and Surveillance Helicopters (RSH). Out of these, 120 will be deployed with the Army and the remaining 80 with the Air Force. The RFI outlines detailed technical requirements and seeks responses from potential suppliers capable of delivering the specified capabilities.

Push for Indigenous Production

Aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the procurement process encourages Indian defense companies to collaborate with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure maximum domestic participation. These helicopters will be designed to operate in all-weather conditions, day and night, and perform a wide range of missions—including reconnaissance, surveillance, and search-and-rescue operations.

They will also be capable of transporting small troop units and quick reaction teams, carrying internal and external loads for specialized missions, supporting ground operations, and coordinating with attack helicopters during reconnaissance tasks.

Part of Wider Defence Modernisation

In a report tabled in Parliament this March, the Ministry highlighted that the Indian Air Force is already engaged in indigenous production of fighter jets, transport aircraft, helicopters, training aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, radars, and a variety of air-to-air, air-to-ground, and surface-to-air weapon systems.

Earlier this year, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the purchase of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at a cost of over ₹45,000 crore for the Army and Air Force, further advancing India’s defense modernization program.

Boosting Capabilities in Extreme Conditions

Defense analysts note that the Chetak and Cheetah fleets, which have operated for decades in demanding environments such as the Siachen Glacier and high-altitude border regions, will be replaced with aircraft offering far greater operational safety and efficiency. The upcoming light helicopters will feature advanced avionics, higher payload capacity, and improved survivability—enabling the armed forces to carry out peacetime missions and combat operations even in the most challenging terrains.