By IANS
New Delhi : Armed helicopters can play a decisive role in future battles, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief, Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major, said Wednesday.
“Recent conflicts have shown that in the battlefield helicopter can and will play a decisive role (in the future),” he said while addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Helipower-2008 international seminar here.
“As an integral element of air, land and naval power, the helicopter is a unique machine that transcends the inter-disciplinary boundaries,” the air chief said.
Thus, “it is up to military professionals to think ahead and ensure optimum utilization of the superbly capable battlefield helicopters of the future. Analysis of emerging trends, timely procurements, training and innovative thought are essential,” added Major, the first helicopter pilot to head the IAF.
Predicting a larger footprint for the military helicopter in its various “avtars” as technologies mature further, Major added: “Combat effectiveness will be enhanced through in-flight refuelling, precision weapons of longer ranges and true all weather capability.
This apart, “integrated architecture, obstacle warning systems, use of smart materials, data-links and ‘fly by wire’ controls are in the pipeline. Higher speeds, reduced signatures, increased operability and perhaps even unmanned combat employment would be realised”, the air chief maintained.
Tracing the history and evolution of helicopters from Sep 1907, through “trials by fire” in various battles, starting with Vietnam in the 1960s and 1970s, the air chief said: “Helicopters have evolved tremendously in potential and capability in recent years.
“From a limited role and questionable survivability, the modern battlefield helicopters are potent platforms with enormous potential. Tilt rotor and related path-breaking technological advances will throw up new challenges,” Major added.
In this context, he noted that IAF has operated Russian, European and American helicopters; and more recently, the indigenously developed Dhruv advanced light helicopter.
“Since independence, our helicopter crews have built up combat experience matched only by a few other air forces in the world,” the air chief said.
Whether in Sri Lanka, the Siachen glacier, the icy heights of Kargil, or in Africa in support of UN peacekeeping forces, “our helicopters have faced hostile enemy action, unforgiving weather and terrain and have earned acclaim for their performance, contributions and valour.
“We have, at times, operated in conditions beyond the design envelope of these machines,” he added.
“In sum, I believe that as the premier operator of battlefield helicopters in the country, the IAF would lead the way for the other services and the nation at large,” Major maintained.