Army deploys civil helicopters for operations, logistics in J&K

Srinagar, Nov 29: To bolster operational capabilities and ensure seamless logistical support, the Army has pressed civil helicopters into service across Jammu and Kashmir.

The initiative, spearheaded under the Dhruva Command, (Northern Command) aims to enhance troop movement, facilitate cargo delivery, and enable casualty evacuation in remote and difficult-to-access areas.

In recent months, the Army has intensified its anti-terror operations under a multi-pronged strategy, targeting militant hideouts and disrupting infiltration routes along the Line of Control (LoC). Civil helicopters will complement existing military aviation assets by providing additional capacity to sustain these operations.

Greater Kashmir learnt from senior Army officials of northern Command that the integration comes in the wake of increasing security challenges and ongoing counterterrorism operations in J&K. “Over the past months, J&K witnessed intensified encounters between security forces and terrorists, particularly in border districts such as Kupwara, Baramulla, Kishtwar and Poonch,” officials said adding that the volatile situation has necessitated improved logistical and operational preparedness, especially in terrains where traditional methods of transport face limitations.

“Troops stationed in high-altitude or remote areas often face delays in receiving supplies and reinforcements due to challenging terrain,” they said, adding that these helicopters will expedite the delivery of critical supplies, arms, and ammunition, while also providing a lifeline for injured personnel in need of urgent evacuation.

“The newly deployed civil helicopters are being utilized for transporting essential supplies, including rations, medical equipment, and construction materials for forward posts,” officials said. “In addition, they will likely prove effective in casualty evacuation during ongoing counterterrorism operations.”

“The integration of civil helicopters marks a new chapter in optimizing logistics management in sensitive areas. This step ensures timely support to troops and enhances our ability to respond effectively to emerging challenges.”

Moreover, they said, logistical challenges in mountainous regions such as Gurez, Machil, and Keran often hinder the timely mobilization of resources during critical operations.” With civil helicopters now part of the Army’s logistics chain, these hurdles are expected to reduce significantly, improving both the efficiency and effectiveness of counter-insurgency operations.”

“Enhance logistics Efficiency #DhruvaCommand integrated civil helicopters into logistics efforts to support troop movement, cargo delivery and casualty evacuation in remote areas. This initiative will enhance mission readiness and logistics efficiency. #OperationalExcellence #MissionReadiness #DhruvaCommand @adgpi,” Northern Command-Indian Army said in a post on X.