Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has marked a major technological leap with the successful test flight of its indigenous Automatic Flight Control System (AFCS) integrated into the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) this week. The achievement, reported on August 2, 2025, demonstrates a crucial step forward for India’s self-reliance in aviation under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The AFCS, which was jointly developed by HAL’s in-house R&D centers—Rotary Wing Research & Design Centre (RWR&DC), Mission Control Systems R&D Centre (MCSRDC), and additional collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)—brings advanced autopilot and flight stability capabilities tailored for the LUH’s high-altitude, multi-mission roles. This indigenous system, replacing costly imported solutions, is vital to the Army’s efforts to replace its aging Cheetah and Chetak fleets. Alongside the AFCS, the LUH features the Shakti-1U engine, co-developed by HAL and Safran of France, as well as locally designed integrated avionics and display systems. Recent months have seen HAL address performance refinements, such as an RFQ for noise attenuation, reinforcing operational reliability and comfort. The AFCS test marks a pivotal moment as the Indian Army advances procurement negotiations for 126 LUHs, with mass induction planned to boost operational deployment in challenging Himalayan and Siachen terrains while emphasizing India’s growing defense manufacturing capacity.