Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has moved ahead with the integration of the KNDS THL20 20mm gun turret for India’s Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) programme. KNDS announced on September 17 that its THL20 turret had been selected for India’s new Light Combat Helicopter programme and that it would supply 126 newly manufactured turrets.
The THL20 is built around the 20M621 20mm cannon, which uses standard NATO 20×102mm ammunition. According to KNDS, the turret is lightweight and compact, with low recoil, and is designed to integrate with helicopter sighting systems to support accurate targeting. The system is derived from the THL30 turret used on Tiger helicopters.
The new order is also an extension of the long-standing relationship between KNDS and the Indian Air Force. KNDS said its partnership with the Indian Air Force began in 2006, when it supplied 136 THL20 turrets for India’s Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) fleet. The latest programme will expand the use of the same turret family on India’s indigenous LCH platform.
India’s LCH, known as Prachand, is designed for operations in challenging high-altitude environments. The integration of the THL20 provides the helicopter with a dedicated 20mm turreted weapon system suited to its combat role. The latest development also highlights the continuing involvement of foreign defence companies alongside Indian manufacturers in the development and production of advanced military platforms.
KNDS said the agreement is aligned with India’s Make in India initiative and highlighted its growing industrial footprint in the country. The company has also entered into partnerships with Indian firm SMPP for the production of KATANA 155mm precision-guided ammunition and MV100 loitering munition systems.
The THL20 selection therefore represents another step in the expanding defence-industrial cooperation between India and KNDS, while adding a proven 20mm turret system to the LCH programme.