Galaxy
Senior Member
- Joined
- Aug 27, 2011
- Messages
- 7,086
- Likes
- 3,934
Aviation corps has come a long way from being a support arm
The Army Aviation Corps completed 25 years on November 1, 2011. This elite force of the Indian Army is celebrating its silver jubilee at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik on November 25 and 26. Commandant of CATS, Brigadier Rajiv Raina, shared the history and importance of the Army Aviation Corps with Vaishali Balajiwale.
How has army aviation evolved over the last 25 years?
Earlier, the Indian Air Force assisted the army in its operations. However, aircraft and pilots of air observation posts played a very significant role in several battles. Considering its role and scope, the need for a separate arm was felt and on November 1, 1986, the Army Aviation Corps was established.
Over the years, it has evolved from being a support arm to being a manoeuvring arm of the Indian Army. The silver jubilee is a matter of pride for all army aviators.
What specific role does the Army Aviation Corps play?
It has utility and combat roles to play in both peace and war. It is a vital link in an all-arms team when employed in conjunction with artillery, infantry and mechanised forces. It also has the capability of attacking the enemy in a combat role.
Are there plans to induct new helicopters?
The Cheetah and Chetak have been the mainstays of our fleet. Men have been trained and have successfully carried out duties in these helicopters. The Dhruv has been one of the most competent additions in the recent past. We do plan to replace the old fleet with modern helicopters. The Dhruv will soon be seen in a weaponised version called the Rudra, to be inducted soon. Trials of many other helicopters are going on and the ministry will decide on that.
The corps has come a long way, from commissioning officers from other wings to direct induction. How did this happen?
Army aviation is a fast growing wing. New squadrons are being raised and we need qualified men for that. The corps has started inducting young officers directly from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and the National Defence Academy (NDA). Initially, they came from other wings. However, even after direct induction, they are still attached to their parent arm, where they complete their young officer's training before undergoing the aviators course at CATS. We are also commissioning women officers directly in the short service commission as air traffic control officers.
What is the role of CATS?
CATS was established in Nashik on September 1, 2003, to impart initial and advanced training to aviators. Over the years, the training modules have been upgraded to meet the advancing needs. It is recognised as one of the best training institutions in the country.
�Aviation corps has come a long way from being a support arm� - Mumbai - DNA
The Army Aviation Corps completed 25 years on November 1, 2011. This elite force of the Indian Army is celebrating its silver jubilee at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik on November 25 and 26. Commandant of CATS, Brigadier Rajiv Raina, shared the history and importance of the Army Aviation Corps with Vaishali Balajiwale.
How has army aviation evolved over the last 25 years?
Earlier, the Indian Air Force assisted the army in its operations. However, aircraft and pilots of air observation posts played a very significant role in several battles. Considering its role and scope, the need for a separate arm was felt and on November 1, 1986, the Army Aviation Corps was established.
Over the years, it has evolved from being a support arm to being a manoeuvring arm of the Indian Army. The silver jubilee is a matter of pride for all army aviators.
What specific role does the Army Aviation Corps play?
It has utility and combat roles to play in both peace and war. It is a vital link in an all-arms team when employed in conjunction with artillery, infantry and mechanised forces. It also has the capability of attacking the enemy in a combat role.
Are there plans to induct new helicopters?
The Cheetah and Chetak have been the mainstays of our fleet. Men have been trained and have successfully carried out duties in these helicopters. The Dhruv has been one of the most competent additions in the recent past. We do plan to replace the old fleet with modern helicopters. The Dhruv will soon be seen in a weaponised version called the Rudra, to be inducted soon. Trials of many other helicopters are going on and the ministry will decide on that.
The corps has come a long way, from commissioning officers from other wings to direct induction. How did this happen?
Army aviation is a fast growing wing. New squadrons are being raised and we need qualified men for that. The corps has started inducting young officers directly from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and the National Defence Academy (NDA). Initially, they came from other wings. However, even after direct induction, they are still attached to their parent arm, where they complete their young officer's training before undergoing the aviators course at CATS. We are also commissioning women officers directly in the short service commission as air traffic control officers.
What is the role of CATS?
CATS was established in Nashik on September 1, 2003, to impart initial and advanced training to aviators. Over the years, the training modules have been upgraded to meet the advancing needs. It is recognised as one of the best training institutions in the country.
�Aviation corps has come a long way from being a support arm� - Mumbai - DNA
