India Air Force aircraft reaches Mauritius with ALH Mk III helicopter for the police force

An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 aircraft has reached Mauritius carrying an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk III that is to be handed over to the Mauritian government.

The addition of this new helicopter will significantly enhance the fleet strength of the Police Helicopter Service of the Mauritius Police Force, doubling its operational capabilities.

“Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 aircraft landed in Mauritius with an ALH MK III helicopter to be handed over to the Govt. of Mauritius. This new addition will add to the fleet strength of PHS, thereby redoubling its operational capabilities,” the Indian High Commission in Mauritius tweeted on Friday.

The Indian Embassy in Mauritius added that the Government of India has extended the lease of the ALH Mk I provided to Mauritius earlier for an additional two years until March 31, 2025.

The Government of Mauritius had signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in January 2022 to procure an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH MK III) for its Police Force. The export of this helicopter highlights India's efforts in defence exports to friendly nations and further strengthens India's relationship with Mauritius in the Indian Ocean Region.

As of now, the government of Mauritius already operates one ALH MK I and a Dornier (Do-228) aircraft.

Speaking about ALH MK III, it is an indigenous, multi-role, and multi-mission helicopter in the 5.5-tonne category that has been proven to be highly effective in various utility roles, including lifesaving missions during natural calamities both in India and overseas.

With over 335 ALHs produced to date, logging in over 3,40,000 flying hours, this helicopter stands as a testament to India's technological prowess in the defence sector.