The Indian Army is bolstering its aviation capabilities through the acquisition of 25 Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv Mk III units from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under a Rs 8,073.17 crore contract. Indigenously developed by HAL, the ALH Dhruv Mk III features twin Turbomeca Shakti engines, an operational ceiling exceeding 6,000 meters, and advanced vibration control for high-altitude missions. The helicopters are equipped with Elbit Systems Electro-Optical Pods, which integrate multi-spectral imaging with thermal imagers, continuous zoom cameras, shortwave infrared channels for low-visibility conditions like haze or dust, and AI-driven target detection for real-time surveillance and reconnaissance across day, night, and adverse weather. Complementing this is Saab’s Integrated Defensive Aids Suite (IDAS), offering radar warning across 0.5-40 GHz frequencies, ultraviolet-based missile approach warnings with precise angle-of-arrival detection, laser threat alerts, and automated countermeasures dispensing for protection against radar-guided missiles and anti-aircraft threats. Accommodating a crew of two and up to 12 passengers, the modular design supports diverse roles such as troop transport and evacuation, ideal for Siachen Glacier and Ladakh deployments. This initiative advances India’s defense self-reliance while fortifying border security.