In a move to strengthen national security, the Indian Army is set to receive 25 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk III. These helicopters, ordered from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in March 2024, represent a significant enhancement to India’s indigenous defense capabilities. This procurement, valued at over ₹8,073 crore, is aimed at modernizing the army’s aviation wing, especially for operations in difficult terrains such as the Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.
The Dhruv Mk III is characterized by its advanced equipment. Each helicopter will be equipped with an electro-optical (EO) pod from Elbit Systems of Israel and an Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (IDAS) from Saab of Sweden. These systems are designed to boost operational effectiveness and enhance the helicopter’s safety in combat. The Dhruv Mk III, designed and manufactured by HAL, is a twin-engine, multi-purpose helicopter. Its utility variant (Mk III UT) is especially useful for transporting soldiers and cargo, search and rescue missions, reconnaissance, and evacuating the wounded.
Its capabilities in high-altitude environments like Siachen and Ladakh make it a vital asset for the Indian Army. The Elbit Systems EO pod provides advanced day-and-night surveillance, target identification, and designation capabilities. It is equipped with high-resolution thermal imaging, a laser range finder, and a target designator, ensuring precision in all weather conditions. The Saab IDAS helps protect the helicopter from threats such as missiles.
The integration of these technologies will make the Dhruv Mk-III a robust platform in modern warfare. This will give the Indian Army an edge in facing challenges from adversaries and in dealing with threats from fighter aircraft such as the JF-17. The contract includes 25 helicopters for the army and 9 for the Coast Guard. HAL delivered the initial six helicopters to the army by the end of March 2024, just two weeks after the agreement was finalized, underscoring a major achievement for the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.