All 7 valleys in state have Chinook helipads, ensuring connectivity in times of need due to poor road systems. New generation equipment also inducted to upgrade communication infra.
IAF's three Mi-26 heavy lift helicopters are currently grounded. Once they're overhauled, India will be first country to have both Russian Mi-26s & American Chinooks in operation.
The Chinese have increased their state of alertness in wake of the IAF exercise and have deployed airborne early-warning aircraft at its Shigatse airport.
Ministry of Defence has cleared overhaul of its 3 Russian Halo choppers. Once the process is complete, IAF will operate both Halo & US Chinook helicopters.
CAG notes Boeing's Chinook has lesser load capacity and carries fewer troops as compared to Russian Mi-26. Report says Mi-26 too does not meet all criteria.
This is the game every nation is now learning to play. Some are finding new allies or seeing value among nations where they’d seen marginal interest. The starkest example is India & Europe.
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