HAL CHETAK (ALOUETTE III)

Type: Light multi-role helicopter.

Maximum Speed: 113 knots (210 km/h)

Service Ceiling: 10,500 ft. (3200 metres)

Range: 290 nautical miles (540 km)

Avionics: Some have search radar.

Armament: ASW; Two Whitehead A244S torpedoes.

Role: Several helicopters roles are performed including embarked carrier-based search & rescue, utility & support to commando forces and more recently in ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) / ESM (Electronic Support Measures) roles.

Self Defence: A media report, dated 05 May 2007, stated that 15 KITE Electronic Support Measures (ESM) systems were fitted aboard the HAL Chetak and Kamov helicopters. Also, an additional 47 KITE systems are on order and in various stages of production & integration. The KITE ESM system is an indigenous development by the Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL).

Comments: HAL Chetaks are carried aboard various combatant/non-combatant surface vessels that are in service with the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard. The latter operates 17 examples of the type. INAS 321, popularly known as Angels, has over twelve flights on various ships and naval air stations all over India. These versatile helicopters are mostly used for SAR both over land and sea.