'Army Aviation Is An Important And Vital Component Of All Arms Combat Force'

Interaction of Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief of SP’s Land Forces with Lieutenant General Kanwal Kumar, Director General and Colonel Commandant of army aviation

- Jayant Baranwal

SP’s land forces (SP’s): what is the significance of the colour presentation to army aviation?

Director General of army aviation (DGAA): The President’s Colours is a visible symbol of excellence and are earned through dedication and worthy contribution both during war and peace. Award of the Colours to Army Aviation Corps is an apt recognition of its ceaseless operational involvement across diverse terrain, in demanding weather and climate conditions in a variety of challenging situations from the icy heights of Siachen Glacier to the Rann of Kutch in the past three decades of its relatively young existence.

SP’s: The vintage chetak-cheetah is believed to have outlived its life. What are the measures being undertaken to ensure the flight worthiness and is there a plan to phase out these helicopters?

DGAA: Maintenance and overhaul procedures of the fleet are well established. Every aircraft that is flying is fully airworthy. Timely servicings and overhauls are being carried out meticulously to ensure serviceability and availability of the helicopter for all operations. As it is an ageing fleet, management of spares remains work at hand. The Cheetah/Chetak helicopter will be phased out with the induction of Ka-226T and LUH manufactured by HAL which is likely over the next few years.

SP’s: Could you elaborate more on acquisitions and their progress for army aviation?