India hands over advanced light helicopter to Mauritius ahead of schedule

NEW DELHI: India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully handed over an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) to the Government of Mauritius at Helicopter Division on Friday.

Nikhil Dwivedi, General Manager, Helicopter Division handed over the Certificate to A K Dip, Commissioner of Police, Mauritius Police Force (MPF) in the presence of E P Jayadeva, Director (Operations), HAL, S Anbuvelan, CEO (HC) and others.

Speaking on the occasion, Jayadeva said HAL has handed over the helicopter way ahead of schedule. This order is in line with the Government of India’s vision to boost defence exports to Friendly Foreign Countries.

The handing over of export helicopter has further bolstered the ties between both countries. The ALH Mk III helicopter will meet the operational requirements of Mauritius Police Force. The helicopter with its state of the art equipment will further enhance the operational requirements of MPF, he said.

Dip said the induction of a new helicopter into the stables of Mauritius Police Force will enhance the aerial capabilities of Mauritius Police. The helicopter will contribute immensely in ensuring the territorial integrity and enhancing the speed and effectiveness of the police intervention during critical incidents and disasters.

Anbuvelan said HAL and the Government of the Republic of Mauritius share a strong business relationship spanning over three decades, with HAL manufactured helicopters already being operated in Mauritius.

HAL would provide all the necessary technical, logistic, and maintenance support for ALH Helicopters in Mauritius.

HAL had signed a contract with Govt. of Republic of Mauritius in January 2022 for export of one ALH Mk III to Mauritius Police Force.

ALH Mk III is a multi-role, multi-mission versatile helicopter in 5.5 tonne category. It has proven its mettle in various utility roles, including numerous lifesaving missions during natural calamities in India and abroad.

More than 335 ALH have been produced till date logging a cumulative of more than 3,75,000 flying hours. HAL also ensures technical assistance and product support to the customer to ensure healthy serviceability of the helicopter.