BENGALURU: Indian Chopper Strength has grown considerably since decades, which positioned India at a stage that it can have the best chopper strength compared to the neighboring countries. There is an increasing stress on indigenization under the 'Make-in-India' policy and government which is all set to unveil a new more 'industry-friendly' defence procurement policy by this month end, according to indiatimes.com.
Big Push Over For Make In India:
Airbus Helicopters and Mahindra Defence, a Mahindra Group subsidiary, have announced their plan to produce helicopters to cater to India's military requirements. According to these two companies, the joint venture will be set up in the coming few months. The tie-up is in line with our intent to develop an indigenous industrial ecosystem dedicated to helicopters.
Choppers To Be Deployed For Coast Guard Security:
The Indian coast guard is finally close to getting its own fleet of medium lift choppers, the requirement for which was raised after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks that were exposed in the surveillance and interception capabilities of the force. While the coast guard currently operates ageing Chetaks as well as indigenous Advanced Light Choppers (ALH) for patrolling, search and rescue, and casualty evacuation, it will be able to cover larger areas faster.
Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) To Be Launched Soon:
Though the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), by state-run aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has been under development for some years, a series of recent performance trials have paved way for finalization of basic configuration.
Three Lines Of Light Military Chopper Soon In Production:
Despite a deal with the Russian government for Ka 226 helicopters, two other lines, including a western chopper that it still to be selected will be required to keep pace with the demand of the three forces. To meet the massive, urgent requirements of the armed forces, India is set to have three different lines of light military choppers, all of which will be manufactured under the 'Make in India' initiative.
A major 'Make in India' project for the private sector to produce close to 200 helicopters in partnership with a foreign vendor is still alive despite the Kamov deal, a senior air force functionary said that tenders for the program would be out soon.
India to acquire 15 Chinook & 22 Apache choppers from U.S.:
India has recently signed a nearly $3 billion deal for purchase of 22 Apache attack helicopters and 15 Chinook heavy-lift choppers with American aviation giant Boeing and the U.S. government. Apache AH 64D Longbow helicopters are one of the most advanced multi-role combat helicopters. Featuring all-weather and night-fighting features, ability to track upto 128 targets in less than a minute and engage with 16, besides stealth characteristics, advanced sensors and beyond visual range missiles.
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