L-3’s TACAN+ has been selected for Light Utility Helicopter program

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has selected its Tactical Airborne Navigation System, TACAN+, for HAL’s new Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) program. The TACAN+ transceiver is a small and light tactical airborne navigation system capable of tracking up to four ground stations simultaneously in range and two in bearing. It can be installed on rotary- and fixed-wing platforms and used for air-to-air and air-to-ground operations. HAL developed the new LUH to meet the reconnaissance and utility rotorcraft needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Army. The first LUH prototype, the PT-1, is scheduled to commence test flights later this year, with initial operational clearance anticipated in 2017. Deliveries to the IAF and Indian Army are expected by the end of 2017, with production taking place near Bengaluru. HAL expects to produce approximately 50 helicopters annually.