India's para-military forces to recieve helicopters
India has decided to equip its para-military forces with helicopters in the wake of threats to Indian airports and the Mumbai terror attacks last November
Reports from India say that the five main para-military forces, the Border Security Force, the Central Industrial Security Force, the Central Industrial Security Force, the Assam Rifles and the elite command of force, the National Security Guards, will soon be given eight multi-utility light Dhruv helicopters to boost their operations in harsh terrains and in difficult situations like a terrorist attack on the country.
The Home Ministry has already signed a 3500 million rupee (70 million U.S. dollars) deal with the country's helicopter manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in the southern Indian city of Bangalore.
"While four chopper would be allocated to the para-military forces this month, the remaining four would be handed over to them later this year or early next year," he said.
Dhruv is a multi-utility advanced light helicopter fitted with night-vision equipment.
At present, the para-military forces borrow helicopters from the Indian armed forces or sometimes from private operators during an operation. Their own chopper would give them an edge to conduct an operation without waiting for outside helicopters to arrive for their use.
More from Defence Helicopter
-
Royal Navy helicopter crews transfer control of UAS in European first
Using technology supplied by QinetiQ, two Royal Navy helicopter crews successfully exchanged control of a UAS while in flight.
-
Leonardo wins Canadian helicopter upgrade programme
The upgrade contract will ensure that the Candian helicopters are compliant with future technological requirements.
-
Guatemala receives Bell Subaru helicopters
The latest version of the Bell 412 helicopter has improved performance and weight capacity and will support Guatemala in various missions.
-
Algeria expresses interest in AW249 while AW139 deal remains in limbo
Leonardo and Algeria hope to seal the AW139 deal in 2023 while Italy and the North African country further strengthen defence ties.
-
Nigeria to receive new attack helicopters
The Nigerian Air Force is to receive more than 50 attack air assets to strengthen its ability to fight insecurity within its borders.
-
Royal Navy upgrades Merlin helicopters
The Royal Navy's amphibious helicopters have received an improved defensive aid suit and Merlin pilots can now train in a synthetic training environment.