The induction ceremony of three indigenously built Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) MK III helicopters into Naval Air Station, INS Dega located at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, was held on Monday (7 June).

With the induction of these Maritime Reconnaissance and Coastal Security (MRCS) helicopters, the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) got a significant boost towards enhancing the force's capabilities in pursuit of the nation's maritime interests.

"These helicopters, built by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, are state-of-the-art flying machines and constitute a major step in our quest for Atma Nirbhar Bharat," the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

ALH MK III helicopters feature an array of systems previously seen only on heavier, multi-role helicopters of the Indian Navy. These helicopters are fitted with modern surveillance radar and electro-optical equipment, which enable them to undertake maritime surveillance and provide long-range Search and Rescue, both by day and night.

In addition to special operations capabilities, ALH MK III is also fitted with a heavy machine gun to undertake constabulary missions. A removable Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) is also included on ALH MK III helicopters to airlift critically ill patients. The helicopter also has a host of advanced avionics, making it indeed an all-weather aircraft.