Helina Missile Indigenisation

Helina is a third-generation anti-tank guided missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation for helicopter launch platforms. It uses an Imaging Infrared seeker, supports lock-on before launch, and can engage armoured targets from 500 metres to 7 kilometres.

Helina Missile: Basic Features

Helina is a fire-and-forget missile system, which means it can be launched after target acquisition without continuous guidance from the operator. The missile can engage targets in direct hit mode and top attack mode, and it is designed for use against armoured vehicles.

Launch Platforms and Trials

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is preparing live fire trials of Helina from the Light Combat Helicopter, also known as Prachand. These trials are planned as the first launch of Helina from the LCH, after earlier successful trials from the Advanced Light Helicopter in 2022. User validation trials of Helina were conducted in April 2022 at high-altitude ranges by teams from the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Indian Army, and the Indian Air Force. The missile was tested from an Advanced Light Helicopter during those trials.

Industrial Orders and Production

Bharat Dynamics Limited received an order worth Rs 1,109.37 crore from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for Helina launchers. The order also includes items worth ₹238.34 crore for Line Replaceable Units and the Countermeasure Dispensing System, with an execution period of 24 to 60 months. The Light Combat Helicopter Prachand has been ordered by the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. Helina integration is linked with the helicopter’s anti-armour role in service use.

Important Facts for Exams

• Helina stands for Helicopter-launched Nag and belongs to the anti-tank guided missile category.
• DRDO developed Helina as a third-generation missile with fire-and-forget capability.
• The missile uses an Imaging Infrared seeker for target acquisition and guidance.
• Helina can be launched from rotary-wing platforms such as the Advanced Light Helicopter and Light Combat Helicopter.