NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will today induct the first four heavy-lift Chinook helicopters capable of transporting howitzers and troops to forward and high-altitude areas across the country, adding more teeth to IAF’s heavy lift capabilities as well as place India-US defence cooperation on a stronger footing.
The first of the iconic machines – with its unmistakable twin rotors – will become part of the 126 Helicopter Flight squadron at an official ceremony in Chandigarh, two officials said. The 126 Helicopter Flight unit currently operates the last of the Russian built Mi-26 choppers that have been transporting heavy equipment so far.
The government-to-government deal was inked by India and the US in September 2015 for 15 Chinooks and with an option of buying seven additional platforms.
