From the induction of the Apache multi-role attack helicopter to the induction of the famous cargo and transport chopper Chinook, the Indian Air Force has modernized its helicopter fleet over the years as never before. The crash of General Bipin Rawat’s helicopter (Mi-17V5) had raised some questions about the helicopter’s airworthiness, but the tri-services panel’s report cleared any doubts about the machine.
The IAF is known to perform multiple roles using these helicopters, including transporting VVIPs to the Prime Minister of India, conducting HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) operations and escorting troops to uncharted areas. As India celebrates its 73rd Republic Day, we list down all the Indian Air Force helicopters that have been serving the nation like an unsung hero since ages.
The Mi-17 V5 recently made a lot of headlines after the twin-turbine transport helicopter crashed in South India, in which India’s first Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat died. The IAF has been using helicopters for a long time to transport VVIPs like General Rawat and even the Prime Minister of India. The Mi-17 V5 is a domestic version of the Mi-17 family of helicopters made by the former Soviet and now Russian Mil Helicopter Company. The medium lift helicopter is used for VVIP movement, SAR (Search and Rescue Operations) and logistics support.
India has recently inducted globally renowned attack helicopters into the Indian Air Force. Known as the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter, the AH-64E is built by Boeing Defense and is known for its attack capabilities in modern warfare. It is also used for missions including reconnaissance, security, peacekeeping missions, and most prominently, as an attack helicopter. Apache’s speed and thrust are unmatched globally.
Dhruv ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) is India’s most advanced indigenous helicopter being developed and manufactured by HAL. Dhruv has been used for a variety of roles ranging from SAR, EVAC and RTR operations, in addition to attack capabilities thanks to an attack variant called Rudra. However, the most prominent and famous of these are the Sarang Helicopter Display Team which uses a special peacock dress in red and the world famous Acrobatic Helicopter Team. The helicopter is a twin-engined helicopter that can carry 14 passengers with two pilots and has a cruise speed of 250 km/h.
In addition to the Apache, the IAF Air Force also inducted the Boeing-built CH-47F(I), known as the Chinook, which is known for its heavy heli-lift capability. A total of 15 Chinooks have been ordered and are in use by the US Army, the US Army Reserve, the National Guard, and the armed forces of more than 19 countries. The CH-47 Chinook provides strategic airlift capability and has advanced cargo-handling capabilities that enhance the aircraft’s mission performance and handling characteristics.
Prior to Apache, the Indian Air Force used the Mil Mi-24, Mi25 and MI-35, twin engine turboshaft assault and anti-armor helicopters. In addition to attack abilities, they are also capable of carrying an attack squad of 8 men. India has gifted several Mi-35s to the Afghan Air Force in the past and the Mi-25 was the IAF’s first attack helicopter squadron on 1 November 1983, while the Mi-35 was inducted in 1990. It also has the biggest Mi. -26 heavy-lift helicopter, which is currently limited to only 3 units and has a capacity of 70 combat troops or 20,000 kg payload.
Last on our list is the most visible helicopter – the Cheetah light helicopter, famous for its all-glass cockpit and distinctive tail. The Cheetah is based on the Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama French single-engine helicopter and is built in India by HAL. It is being deployed in high altitude areas of J&K, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand and is the backbone for SAR, Casualty Evacuation and RTR (Route Transport Role) activities. It can carry 3 passengers or 100 kg external sling load.
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