The Indian Navy has taken two Augusta Westland-139 helicopters on wet lease from Indian civilian operator Global Vectra to support logistics operations. Read: The Latest Defence Current Affairs Notes here
These helicopters will not be used for combat or military missions but will be deployed solely for transporting logistical supplies to naval ships.
One of the leased helicopters has already been positioned for logistics duties on one of the country’s two seaboards.
The agreement for the wet-lease programme was finalised a few months ago.
The two helicopters have been contracted for operations under the Western and Eastern Naval Commands, and the Navy may decide on increasing the number of leased platforms after assessing feedback from field formations.
The decision to lease helicopters came during a period when the Navy’s ALH Dhruv helicopters remained grounded for an extended duration and are currently operating under observation.
The grounding followed technical defects identified after a Coast Guard helicopter crash in Porbandar.
At present, the Indian Navy is pursuing several helicopter procurement initiatives. These include the acquisition of UH Marine helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Naval Utility Helicopters project, and plans to induct large multirole helicopters.
Read : The Latest Defence Current Affairs Notes here
Also Read : Current Affairs for All Competitive Exams — SSB Interview Study Material — English Study Material for All Govt Exams — AFCAT CDS NDA CAPF AC NCERT GK Notes
