New Delhi: In a major boost to the further strengthening of the Coast Guard Eastern Region, 840 Sqn (CG), the Advanced Light Helicopter Squadron (ALH) Mk-III of the Indian Coast Guard, has been commissioned by DG VS Pathania at ICG Air Station, Chennai, the Ministry of Defense said. defense.
The launch of 840 Sqn (CG) is indicative of a leap towards self-reliance in helicopter manufacturing, in line with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. “It will provide a major addition to the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard in the security sensitive waters off the Tamil Nadu and Andhra regions,” the ministry added.
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 enables the helicopter to conduct maritime reconnaissance and long-range search and rescue while operating from a ship, both day and night,” the ministry said.
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 in Chennai. Since deployment, the squadron has logged more than 430 hours and conducted numerous operational missions,” the ministry said.
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