Srinagar, Dec 02: In a major move to bolster operational capabilities and enhance logistical efficiency, Indian Army has introduced civil helicopters into its operations across Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative, led under the Dhruva Command of the Northern Command, aims to improve troop mobility, streamline cargo delivery, and facilitate casualty evacuation in remote and challenging terrains, officials said.
Army Spokesman said to enhance logistics efficiency Dhruva Command integrated civil helicopters into logistics efforts to support troop movement, cargo delivery and casualty evacuation in remote areas. This initiative will enhance mission readiness and logistics efficiency, he said.
A top Army official told Rising Kashmir that the use of civil helicopters will address logistical challenges in regions with difficult topography and adverse weather conditions. It will also ensure operational readiness in dense areas to augment existing infrastructure and resources, he said.
“Under this, civil aviation helicopters are being employed instead of Army’s own aviation or Air Force assets. This will not only reduce costs but preserve the service life of military helicopters for more critical roles in combat or emergency scenarios, he added.
The Army official said that this move marks a significant change in how the Army supports its high-altitude positions during harsh winters when heavy snow makes these areas hard to reach. These helicopters are outsourced by a private company who will be also responsible for its maintenance , he added.
“Jammu and Kashmir’s terrain poses extraordinary logistical hurdles. By incorporating civil helicopters into our operations, we not only improve our response time but also ensure that our troops in the most isolated locations are better supported. This initiative underscores our resolve to maintain operational superiority while ensuring the well-being of our personnel,” he added.
The officer further said that integration of civil aviation assets provides flexibility and scalability to our operations. This collaboration bridges the gap between existing military resources and the evolving demands of modern warfare and peacetime logistics. These helicopters will be utilized for a range of critical tasks, including airlifting essential supplies such as rations, medical equipment, and ammunition, he added.
“These choppers will play a pivotal role in evacuating injured personnel from remote posts during encounters or any weather conditions, particularly in high-altitude areas where quick access to medical facilities can be life-saving,” he added.
In May last year, a technician was killed and two pilots were injured after an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv with three people on board crashed following a “hard landing” Kishtwar district.
