IAF to order more advanced light combat copters

Impressed with the performance of the armed version of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), the Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to buy more such copters for high-altitude operations in the Himalayas and the desert sector on the western front. The copter, called the ALH Mark-IV version and known by its military name 'Rudra', was used in Eastern Ladakh during the stand-off with China. The IAF has one squadron of 14 to 16 copters and is looking to get at least three more squadrons. Produced by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the copters are adapted for high altitudes and powered by 'shakti engines' that can take it to 20,000 ft.