One Indian Navy Advanced Light Helicopter MK III has been deployed at Maldives on 27 Apr 16. The helicopter will be based at Kadhdhoo Island in Laamu Atol of Maldives.The helicopter will assist MNDF for undertaking Search And Rescue, Casualty Evacuation, Coastal Surveillance, Maritime Reconnaissance, Communication and Logistic Duties.
The Indian Naval Contingent headed by Cdr Rohit Gupte, who is an experienced helicopter pilot comprises four officers and 21 sailors. The technical support team comprises 13 technicians and is headed by Lt Cdr Jithu K Joy. The support team with the spares and support equipment have already reached Male on 25 Apr 16. The ALH MK III landed at Male at 1630 hrs local time on 27 Apr 16 and was received by The Minister of Defence and National Security His Excellency Mr Adam Shareef and High Commissioner of India to Maldives His Excellency Shri Akhilesh Mishra .
The Advanced Light Helicopter (MKIII) has been manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and has state of the art avionics and is powered by Shakti engines.
The detachment of the ALH would further strengthen the robust maritime cooperation between our two nations.