Article Avn
Article Avn
1. In the realm of military operations, the Indian Army Aviation Corps stands as a formidable
force, soaring through the skies to support and defend the nation's interests. Established in
1986, this vital branch of the Indian armed forces has grown from strength to strength, and
today it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Army.
HISTORY AND EVOLUTION
2. The roots of the Indian Army Aviation Corps can be traced back to the early 1970s when
the Indian Army realized the need for dedicated aviation support. In 1986, the Army Aviation
Corps was officially established, marking a significant milestone in the development of
India's military capabilities.
3. The corps was initiated with limited resources, including a small fleet of Cheetah and
Chetak helicopters, primarily designed for reconnaissance and utility purposes. In the early
years, the corps played a crucial role in counter insurgency operations in the strife-torn
regions of Jammu and Kashmir and the north eastern states.
4. As the Corps evolved, it recognized the importance of modernization to meet the
demands of a changing strategic landscape. In the 2000s, it began acquiring HAL Dhruv
helicopters, which were more versatile and capable of performing various roles, including
troop transport, casualty evacuation, and light attack.
5. In 2021, all Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) of the Indian Army, many of which were
earlier with the Artillery, were moved to the Army Aviation Corps. This bought all aviation
assets of the Army under one roof. The turning point came with the development and
induction of the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), an indigenous marvel designed for combat
operations at high altitudes and challenging terrains. This marked a significant leap in India's
self-reliance in defence technology.
FLYING OPERATIONS IN 3 CORPS AOR
6. The Indian Army Aviation has been the back bone of flg ops in 3 corps AOR. The rugged
terrain with acute lack of infra makes ground ops heavily reliant on this air arm of the Indian
army. With its unflinching resolve and professional commitment, the flg units deliver to the
expectations of its motto ‘SWIFT & SURE’. With a plethora of helicopter assets like Cheetah,
Dhruv, Rudra Weapon Systems Integrated, Heron the aviation units leave no stone unturned
by undertaking relentless flying missions in the rugged and difficult terrain facing the
vagaries of weather thrown at them. From evacuating casualties from inaccessible areas to
sustaining forces at the LAC flying missions need to be undertaken with exacting precision
whilst treading between aerospace safety and mission accomplishment. Area recce, troops
and load induction, aeromedical evacuation, combat free-fall, area domination, aerial
engagement of enemy etc constitute the major tasks of army aviation in 3 corps AOR which
spans a large area constituting six of the north eastern states and with wide range of
missions being undertaken both in LAC operations and in Counter Insurgency operations.
CONCLUSION
7.The Indian Army Aviation Corps, with its unwavering dedication and commitment,
epitomizes the spirit of service and sacrifice. As a multifaceted military arm, it remains a
pillar of strength for the Indian Army, ensuring that the nation's borders are secure, its
citizens are protected, and its interests are safeguarded. The Corps continues to soar to new
heights, defending India's sovereignty and serving humanity in times of need.