Indian Coast Guard inducts made-in-India choppers for maritime security of west coast
Categories: DAILY NEWS
The Indian Coast Guard inducted two Advanced Light Helicopters Mk3 variants at Kochi, under the 845 Squadron. These made-in-India helicopters are designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and ten of these are being operated by the Indian Coast Guard. The Mk 3 variant of the chopper is a maritime version that can be used for reconnaissance, long-range search and rescue, during both day and night. The ALH Mk 3 features an array of systems that were previously seen on heavier, multi-role helicopters. This variant is fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment. It is also fitted with a heavy machine gun and a removable intensive care unit, that would be useful in airlifting and providing relief to critically ill patients. With a host of advanced avionics, this chopper is an all-weather aircraft.The ALH Mk3 squadron in Kochi will be commanded by Commandant Kunal Chandrakant Naik, who is an experienced qualified flying instructor with extensive operational experience in ALH Mk3.