The Indian Army’s aviation unit recently conducted a successful test of the new generation rocket and turret ammunition system from the Rudra, the combat version of the Dhruv helicopter and the first indigenous attack chopper. Three armed helicopters took off from an airfield in the northeast and flew in formation to the firing zone. One of the helicopters then unleashed a barrage of steel and fire on the targets.
A video posted by the army’s Spear Corps showcased the heads-up display (HUD) of the Rudra attack helicopter during the firing of rockets and the nose-mounted gun, which has the capability to penetrate light armor. The gunner in the Rudra maintained accurate aim on the targets by firmly fixing the digital reticle in the HUD.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the Spear Corps said, “The Indian Army fired the New Generation Rocket and Turret Ammunition from the Rudra, the first indigenous attack helicopter. The efficacy of the platform augments the strike capability and lethality in the mountains. Corps Commander complimented the aviators on their professionalism and operational preparedness.”
The Rudra, weighing 5.8 tonnes, was designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) to fulfill the requirements of the Indian Air Force and the army. It serves multiple roles, including tank destruction, scouting ahead of the main force, providing fire support to ground troops, and conducting armed reconnaissance and surveillance.
Equipped with a 20 mm turret gun, 70 mm rocket system, and air-to-air missiles, the Rudra enhances the army’s capabilities in mountainous terrain. This successful test highlights the progress made in India’s defense sector and further strengthens the country’s self-reliance in developing advanced military equipment.
