New Delhi: In a significant development aimed at bolstering its operational prowess, the Indian Army’s Aviation Corps has finalised a contract for the acquisition of 25 new Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH). Furthermore, in a strategic move to enhance its combat capabilities in the Western desert sector, the Indian Army is set to inaugurate a new ALH Dhruv attack helicopter squadron in Jodhpur on March 15.
The officials of the Defense Ministry in a statement said, “The Defence Ministry today signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for acquiring 25 new ALH Dhruv helicopters for the Indian Army. The ALH Dhruv Mk III UT (Utility) is designed for Search & Rescue, Troop Transportation, Internal Cargo, Recce/ Casualty Evacuation etc. It has proved its performance in high-altitude regions like Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.”
Key Highlights
- The Ministry signed two contracts totaling Rs 8073.17 crore for the procurement of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk III, allocated for both the Indian Army (25 ALHs) and the Indian Coast Guard (09 ALHs).
- The Indian Army’s Army Aviation Corps is set to mark a significant milestone with the imminent establishment of its first squadron of Apache attack helicopters in Jodhpur. According to Indian Army officials, the squadron’s inaugural choppers are anticipated to arrive from the United States in May this year.
- The Indian Air Force has already acquired 22 of these American attack helicopters, which have been deployed in conflicts in the northern sector in recent times.
