Indian Coast Guard Welcomes First ALH MK-III Helicopter in Ratnagiri
The Indian Coast Guard has officially inducted its first indigenous ALH MK-III helicopter in Maharashtra, enhancing maritime security.
The ALH MK-III helicopter, CG 875, was inducted in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra.
This helicopter features advanced radar and a heavy machine gun for enhanced operational capabilities.
It is the first of five ALH MK-III helicopters to be stationed with the Coast Guard in the region.
The Indian Coast Guard has officially inducted its first indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH MK-III), designated CG 875, into the Coast Guard Region (West) at Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The helicopter was ceremoniously welcomed at the Coast Guard Air Station with a traditional water cannon salute, marking a significant milestone in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Coast Guard along the western coastline.
The induction of the ALH MK-III helicopter represents a substantial upgrade in the Coast Guard's ability to monitor and protect India's maritime interests, particularly in the sensitive coastal areas of Maharashtra. This state-of-the-art aircraft is equipped with advanced radar systems, long-range imaging, and identification capabilities through its Electro Optical Pod and Automatic Identification System, which collectively enhance its surveillance and detection functions.
In addition to its surveillance capabilities, the helicopter is armed with a 12.7 mm Heavy Machine Gun, allowing for effective target neutralization. These features will significantly improve the Coast Guard's response capabilities, enabling them to address various maritime challenges more effectively within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India.
The induction of CG 875 is particularly noteworthy as it is the first of five ALH MK-III helicopters allocated to the 831 Squadron (CG) based in Ratnagiri. The progressive arrival of the remaining helicopters is expected to further bolster the operational readiness of the squadron, allowing for sustained aerial surveillance and response across the vast maritime areas under the Coast Guard's jurisdiction.
Looking ahead, the Indian Coast Guard plans to continue enhancing its fleet with additional ALH MK-III helicopters, which will play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests. As these aircraft become operational, they will contribute significantly to the Coast Guard's mission of ensuring maritime security and responding to emerging challenges in the region.
