Port Blair, Jan 28: In a boost to India’s maritime security, the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) MK III was formally inducted on Friday into naval air station INS Utkrosh. Lieutenant General Ajai Singh, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN) did the formal induction of the aircraft, marking a continuing increase in the capabilities of the A&N command in the past two decades of its raising as India’s only joint theatre command. As the rotor blades of the versatile helicopter cut through the air, the aircraft was ceremonially welcomed into ANC with a traditional water cannon salute, in a sight worth seeing and admiring. The aircraft is manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and represents a tremendous leap towards self-reliance in the field of military aircraft, in line with the government’s push towards “AtmaNirbhar Bharat”. To date over 300 such aircraft have been delivered by HAL and are being flown by the Armed Forces. Among its variants, the MK III plays a maritime role encompassing state of the art sensors and weapons that add punch to India’s prowess at sea. The ALH MK III aircraft with its glass cockpit, Shakti engines, advanced Maritime Patrol Radar, Electro–optical payload and Night Vision Device will act as a force multiplier in keeping India’s far eastern seaboard and Island territories safe. The state of the art aircraft has multirole capabilities including Maritime Surveillance, support for Special Forces, medical evacuations, besides search and rescue roles. Speaking on this occasion, Lieutenant General Singh said the induction of the helicopter was not just a boost to the security of Andaman & Nicobar, but was also symbolic of the country’s resolve in not only being self-reliant in its security, but also in its unwavering commitment to maintain peace in the region.
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