Indian Air force to deploy Mi-17 chopper squadron near Indo-Pak border

JODHPUR: Strengthening its presence along the Pakistan border, the Indian Air force is deploying a squadron of its latest Mi-17 V5 helicopters, comprising about 15 aircraft, in Phalodi air base near here.

IAF chief Air Marshal NAK Browne will induct the new helicopters on January 7, defence spokesperson Colonel SD Goswami said.

The helicopter is an upgrade of Mi-17 in the medium-lift category and is equipped with sophisticated avionics and on-board navigation systems.

"It has on-board weather radar, state-of-the art autopilot and is equipped with the latest generation night vision devices. With these, the helicopter can undertake all- weather, day-night operations in any kind of terrain," he said.

Located between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, Phalodi Air base was set-up in 2010 for air defence purposes in the western sector.