As a part of the ongoing exercise Gangan Shakti-24, the Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased its ability in execution of Emergency Landing Facilities (ELF) operations in the Kashmir Valley.
This large-scale exercise comprised the landing of a number of personnel at night using Chinook, Mi-17 V5, and ALH Mk-III helicopters, demonstrating the IAF’s capabilities in difficult situations. The area selected for activation of ELF in this case was the Wanpoh-Sangam area of the existing highway.
Mi 17 V5, primarily Russian in origin, is the workhorse of the IAF and are extensively being used for transportation of men and material along our difficult mountainous borders. The Chinooks have been imported from the US. A contract for 15 of these helicopters was signed over a decade back. All 15 have since been delivered. The ALH MK III has been produced by HAL, the biggest Indian company in the aerospace sector.
Working with state governments, the IAF plans to activate ELFs in various sectors as part of its drive at improving operational preparedness.
With developed infrastructure for ELF operations, the Indian Air Force will be able to operate from landing surfaces in remote areas in the event of a requirement of undertaking disaster relief (HADR). The capacity to move soldiers and stores, to and fro, and conduct operations at night would add to the Indian Armed Forces’ operational capabilities.
Team Bharatshakti
