[Avionics Today 06-23-2015] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has selected L-3 Aviation Products’ (L-3 AP) 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. The system can be installed on rotary- and fixed-wing platforms for use in air-to-air and air-to-ground applications.
HAL developed the new LUH to accommodate the reconnaissance and utility rotorcraft needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Army. The company has scheduled the first LUH prototype, the PT-1, to commence test flights later this year, and anticipates initial operational clearance in 2017. HAL expects to begin deliveries to the IAF and Indian Army by the end of 2017, with production taking place near Bengaluru. HAL expects to produce approximately 50 helicopters annually.