The Indian Army's Aviation Corps is set to get deadlier as the Ministry of Defense (MoD) cleared the acquisition of 25 indigenously developed Dhruv choppers from the state-run aviation major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a release stated on Wednesday evening.
In addition to the 25 ALH Dhruv Mk III UT (Utility) for the Indian Army, the MoD put pen to paper on a deal for nine ALH Mk III MR (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
The overall cost of the 34 helicopters is pegged at approximately $974 million.
"The ALH Dhruv Mk III UT (Utility), the Indian Army version, is designed for Search & Rescue, Troop Transportation, Internal Cargo, Recce/ Casualty Evacuation etc. It has proved its performance in high altitude regions like Siachen Glacier and Ladakh," the statement from the MoD noted.
It is worth noting that a new squadron of Dhruv choppers is being raised by the Indian Army in Jodhpur city of Rajasthan, which would give a major boost to its offensive capabilities along the border adjoining arch-foe Pakistan.
On the other hand, the ALH Mk III MR helicopters being bought for the ICG are designed to carry out surveillance missions, search and rescue operations, transportation of troops and ammunition, and conducting emergency medical evacuations.