Public sector defence major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has handed over the indigenously built Weapon System Integrated (WSI) helicopter-Rudra (ALH WSI Mk-IV) to the Indian Army.
Dr R.K. Tyagi, Chairman, HAL, handed over the helicopter to Deputy Chief of Army Staff (DCOAS), Lt Gen Narendra Singh, at a ceremony held at the Aero India 2013.
Dr Tyagi said “Rudra is a symbol of Defence preparedness and assured HAL’s commitment towards all the projects of Indian Army.”
Lt Gen Narendra Singh said “Rudra-true to its name is a modern helicopter with state-of-the-art weaponary. This combat platform would help Indian Army to march ahead towards victory for the future battles fought, if any.”
Rudra is the Mk-IV variant of Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) designed and manufactured by HAL. The helicopter is fitted with weapons, targeting systems, warning and counter measure systems and survivability features.
Rudra is a weaponised platform catering to attack roles with self-defence capability. The helicopter is fitted with three sighting systems i.e., Electro Optic Pod, Helmet Mounted Sight and Fixed Sight.
A 20 mm Turret Gun is fitted in the nose of the helicopter and the combination of 70 mm Rockets, Air-To-Air-Missiles and Anti Tank Guided Missiles can be fitted on the four weapon stations.
The warning and counter measures include Radar Laser Missile Warning Systems and Flare Chaff Dispensers. The helicopter has growth potential for additional systems such as Obstacle Avoidance System, IR Jammer, Data Link and others.
P. Soundara Rajan, Managing Director of HAL’s (Helicopter Complex), handed over the documents of the helicopter to Lt Gen Narendra Singh, on this occasion.
Additional Director General (Army Aviation) Maj Gen P K Bharali, Dr K. Tamilmani, CEO, Center for Military Airworthiness and Certification and other dignitaries were present during the occasion.