SOURCE: AFI
In a move aimed at bolstering its operational capabilities in the challenging terrain of India’s northern borders, the Indian Army is seeking to hire helicopters from civil agencies. These helicopters will be tasked with a variety of duties, including logistics support, troop transportation, and casualty evacuation.
The Army plans to deploy these single-engine helicopters in select sectors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. These include Drass, Kargil, Batalik, Doda, Kishtwar, and Gurez. While the helicopters will be primarily operational during the winter months (November to April), their deployment may be extended to other periods as required.
The decision to hire civil helicopters comes in response to the aging and increasingly unreliable Chetak and Cheetah fleets currently in service with the Army. These helicopters have been in operation for many years and are nearing the end of their technical life. Their serviceability issues have become a growing concern, particularly in the harsh conditions of the Himalayan region.
The Army’s long-term plan is to replace these aging helicopters with indigenous light utility helicopters. However, until the indigenous replacements are fully developed and deployed, the civil helicopters will serve as a valuable interim solution.
Potential service providers have been invited to submit bids for the helicopter services. The Army is seeking information on the types of helicopters available, their technical specifications, and their rates per flying hour. The aim is to select helicopters that are suitable for the challenging terrain and weather conditions of the northern borders.