Navy Chopper Meets With Accident Near Mumbai Coast, 3 Crew Members Rescued Safely

Three crew members of the chopper were safely rescued by a naval patrol craft, and the Navy ordered ordered an inquiry to investigate the incident

The Navy has also ordered an inquiry to investigate the incident.

Indian Navy chopper met with an accident on Wednesday off the Mumbai coast during a routine sortie. The Navy said three crew members of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) were safely rescued by a naval patrol craft.  An immediate search and rescue operation was launched to ensure the safe recovery of a crew by Naval patrol craft.

The Navy has also ordered an inquiry to investigate the incident, reported news agency ANI. Advanced Light Helicopter or ALH-DHRUV is an indigenously developed utility aircraft with twin engines. It has a multi-role, multi-mission dimension to it.  
 
ALH has been developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).  The company started manufacturing the helicopter in 1984, and it was initially designed with Germany's assistance from Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm (MBB). The helicopter was first flown in 1992, but entered service after certification in 2002.

Meanwhile, two warships of the French Navy, amphibious helicopter carrier FS Dixmude, and the frigate LA Fayette are visiting Kochi on the occasion of India and France celebrating the 25th anniversary of their strategic partnership.

The visit of the French Navy Ships FS  is scheduled between March 6 and 10 as part of the circumnavigation mission, Jeanne d’Arc mission. It is an annual deployment undertaken by French Navy ships, is aimed at enhancing interoperability between the navies of both countries.

During the ongoing visit, the French team visited professional training schools and ships of Southern Naval Command. Cross-training visits, and professional and social interaction including sports fixtures were some of the highlights of the visit.

Indo-French Naval cooperation is a key element in strengthening regional maritime security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The French ships' visit to India significantly is a sign of strong bilateral defence ties and strategic partnerships between the two nations.