ICG’s squadron of Mk-III advanced light helicopters commissioned in Chennai | News Bharat

Describing the indigenously designed Mk-III ALH as a “big boost to the central government’s Make in India initiative”, Pathania said these helicopters would address the multifaceted maritime interests of the country.

Indigenously manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the ALH Mk-III helicopters are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment including advanced RADAR and electro optical sensors, Shakti engines, full glass cockpit, high intensity search light, advanced communication systems, automatic identification system and homer search and rescue system.

This feature allows the helicopter to conduct maritime reconnaissance and search and rescue over longer distances while operating from a ship, both day and night.

The aircraft can change roles from an offensive platform with a heavy machine gun to an aircraft carrying a medical intensive care unit to facilitate the transfer of critically ill patients.

The aircraft can switch roles from an offensive platform with a heavy machine gun to a benign platform carrying a medical intensive care unit to facilitate the transfer of critically ill patients. A total of 16 ALH Mk-III aircraft have been phased in to the Indian Coast Guard and four of these aircraft are stationed at Chennai. Since deployment, the squadron has logged more than 430 hours and conducted numerous operational missions.