COAST GUARD EASTERN REGION GETS A NEW ALH SQUADRON IN CHENNAI
Chennai 20 June 2022
COAST GUARD EASTERN REGION GETS A NEW ALH SQUADRON IN CHENNAI
Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mark-III aircraft, inducted into Coast Guard Region (East) at Chennai on 20 June 2022. It will be the first aircraft of the newly created ‘840 Squadron’. The new squadron will be stationed at Chennai, the headquarters of the Eastern Region of the Indian Coast Guard. Three more ALHs will be added in the inventory of 840 Squadron shortly. The aircraft was received at Coast Guard Air Station, Chennai with a traditional ‘water cannon salute’.
Inspector General AP Badola, TM, Commander Coast Guard Region East, welcomed the aircraft and crew. By positioning the ALH MK III at Chennai, the Coast Guard has achieved a multifold capability of Beyond Visual Range detection, using the state-of-the-art radar integrated with long range imaging and identification using the Electro Optical Pad and Automatic Identification System.
The aircraft additionally is equipped for carrying out target neutralisation, bringing to use its mounted Heavy Machine Gun. Through concerted aerial efforts, the state-of-the-art helicopter will address India’s multi-faceted marine interests within the Exclusive Economic Zone. The Squadron’s operations area will encompass the entire Eastern Region due to its strategic importance and geographical location. Inclusion of ALH MK III will boost the air-arm of Indian Coast Guard Region East.
It is an indigenous aircraft designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The induction of ALH Mk III aircraft represents a tremendous leap towards self-reliance in the field of Coast Guard aviation, in line with the government’s push towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. Till date, 13 out of 16 of these aircraft have been delivered by M/s HAL to the ICG. The addition of a capable platform such as an ALH MK III would definitely enhance the unit’s operational footprint. This is the first ALH MK III aircraft to be positioned in Coast Guard Region East.
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PS/CS/06/22
