Indian Navy ALH MK-3 Helicopter Crashes Off The Coast Of Mumbai; Crew Recovered

In tragic news, a Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) built Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH MK-3) crashed off the coast of Mumbai.

All three crew members were rescued by a naval patrol craft. An inquiry into the crash has been ordered by the Indian Navy.

The first squadron of ALH Mk-III — Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 323, was inducted into the Navy in April 2021.

ALH MK-III has an all-glass cockpit and comes installed with Latest-Generation Avionics and Equipment and is primarily meant for use in Long-Range Search and Rescue (SAR) and Maritime Reconnaissance roles.

The Helicopter can also be used for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.

It has a surveillance radar, EO/FLIR, a homer, a high-intensity searchlight, and a removable Medical Intensive Care Unit for the Air Ambulance role as well.

The Indian Navy has ordered 16 helicopters. The Navy will operate these helicopters from two squadrons — (INAS 323 and INAS 325).

The second squadron — Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS 325) — was commissioned in the Navy in late May 2022.