Helicopter used by Indian Air Force

Can you list me the names of different types of Helicopter used by Indian Air Force or IAF?

[Raman Vij]

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the air arm of the Indian armed forces and World's 4th largest airforce. Its primary responsibility is to secure Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during a conflict.

It was officially established in1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire and the prefix Royal was added in 1945 in recognition of its services during World War II.

Since independence, it has been involved in four wars with neighboring Pakistan and one with the People's Republic of China.

Other major operations undertaken by the IAF include Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus and Operation Poomalai.

Apart from conflicts, the IAF has been an active participant in United Nations peacekeeping missions.

Helicopters

The HAL Dhruv serves primarily as a light utility helicopter in the IAF. In addition to transport and utility roles, newer Dhruvs are also used as attack helicopters. 4 Dhruvs are also operated by the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team.

The HAL Chetak is a light utility helicopter and is used primarily for training, rescue and light transport roles in the IAF. The HAL Chetak is being gradually replaced by HAL Dhruv.

The HAL Cheetah is a light utility helicopter used for high altitude operations. It is used for both transport and search-and-rescue missions in the IAF.

The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles.

The Mi-8 is being progressively replaced by the Mi-17 series of helicopters. The IAF has ordered 80+59 Mi-17V-5s to replace and augment its existing fleet of Mi-8s and Mi-17s.

The Mil Mi-26 serves as a heavy lift helicopter in the IAF. It can also be used to transport troops or as a flying ambulance. The IAF currently operates 3 Mi-26s.

The Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates 2 squadrons (No.104 Firebirds and No.125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.