The HAL Prachand, India’s indigenous Light Combat Helicopter, is expanding its capabilities to serve as an anti-drone hunter, addressing emerging threats from advanced UAVs like Pakistan’s YIHA drones. Collaborating with the Indian Army and private firms, HAL plans to integrate air-to-air missiles and air-launched drones for ISR and interception missions, enhancing the helicopter’s versatility. This development reflects lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, focusing on a robust counter-drone strategy. The Prachand will also incorporate loitering munitions to target ground assets, increasing operational effectiveness in contested environments and ensuring a strategic advantage for Indian forces against evolving aerial threats.