New Delhi: The Indian Navy on Friday received three ‘Made in India’ mark-III advanced light helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to customise coastal security.
Three helicopters delivered to the Indian navy are fully loaded multi-mission helicopters with an array of advanced sensors. Indian Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh at ‘Aero India’ received three out of 16.
The Indian Navy has ordered 16 MK-III helicopters to supplement its ageing and depleting fleet of Chetaks from HAL.
Mark-III features a full glass cockpit with HAL’s Integrated Architecture Display System (IADS), more powerful ‘Shakti’ engines and a host of new systems.
These helicopters are primarily meant for use in a shore-based role and they come up with latest-generation avionics and role equipment.
Karambir Singh Admiral on Thursday said that “The future of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) depends on the cooperative efforts of littoral (close to the shore) nations.”
“In many ways, the future of the IOR hinges on the cooperative efforts of its littoral nations. Prosperity and security for all in the IOR can only be accomplished if the nations set out and achieve it together,” Karambir Singh said.
“The concept of security and growth for all in the region remains crucial. Indian Navy believes that each one amongst us in IOR is an equal and critical partner in the business of keeping seas safe and secure,” Singh had said.
Indian Air force is also planning to increase 30 squadrons of Indigenous light combat aircraft Tejas.
India steadily increases its air force strength to counter any unexpected activity of China and Pakistan at the border.
_Vinayak.Barot