IAF deploys specialised choppers to track terror attacks
06 Dec 2011
New Delhi: Keeping pace with changing scenarios in urban terror attacks the Indian Air Force has deployed a specialized helicopter each at New Delhi and Mumbai to beam "live'' the action on the ground during "terror strikes or urban warfare''.
According to defence sources, two Russian-origin Mi-17 1V helicopters, equipped with advanced FLIR (forward-looking infrared) imaging systems and CCD (charge-coupled device) sensors will provide live streaming video footage from the scene of an incident to command and control centres on the ground.
The specialised helicopters y will play a reconnaissance and surveillance role during crisis situations, such as the 26/11 terror strikes in Mumbai or the Parliament attack in Delhi before that.
Live aerial feeds will make it possible to launch swift and well-directed counter-measures to threats emerging on the ground. The helicopters will reduce the reaction time or shorten the 'sensor-to-shooter loop'sources said.
Apparently dubbed the 'Heli-Teli Project' it is likely to be extended to other major cities in the future. The IAF may be looking to acquire imaging systems and sensors suitable for carrying on the smaller Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.