Defence forces flaunt strength with Chinook, Apache copters on R-Day
The 71st Republic Day parade at Rajpath on Sunday (January 26) saw the showcasing of several battle weapons of the defence forces including the newly-inducted Chinook and Apache helicopters and the Rafale fighter jet.
The Indian armed forces also displayed the army’s battle tank Bhishma, Infantry Combat Vehicle Ballway Machine Pikate and the long-range artillery gun Dhanush.
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The Chinook helicopter which along with Apache chopper took part in the flypast for the first time on Sunday, can airlift diverse loads in remote locations. It is a heavy lift, twin rotor helicopter which has enhanced IAF’s lift capability across a range of military and HADR missions.
The Apache, on the other hand, is a versatile helicopter capable of firing air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, rockets and front gun aided through fire control radar which can unleash havoc on the adversary.
It has provided the Indian armed forces a significant edge against the enemy on the battlefield.
The Dhanush gun system which was showcased for the first time at the parade was commanded by Indian Army Captain Mrigank Bharadwaj. With a maximum range of 36.5 km and capability of automatic alignment and positioning, the gun is equipped with inertial navigation-based sighting system, auto-laying facility, on board ballistic computation and an advanced day and night direct firing system. Â The gun reportedly can be used in all kinds of terrains including deserts and high altitudes. Dhanush is an improved version of the FH-77B 155mm/39-calibre field howitzers that were produced by AB Bofors of Sweden.
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The marching contingent of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) also showcased Mission Shakti, India’s first anti-satellite mission, initiated to bring down hostile satellites.
(With inputs from agencies)
