In February 2005, Yelahanka AFS in Bangalore was once again home to Aero India - an air show which has grown in size and popularity since its inception in the mid-1990s. For 2005, the Indian Naval Air Arm had an substantial presence here and the newly-inducted HAL Dhruv was the pride and joy of the Indian Naval Aviation during the week long event. This indigenous helicopter entered service with the Indian Navy on 28 March 2002. The service is expected to acquire as many as 120 examples, which will serve in a multirole capacity - from Search & Rescue (SAR) to ASW/AShW warfare. BR's own Arun Vishwakarma was present at Aero India '05 and was armed with an Olympus 750 and a Pentex Optio 550 camera. Through the lens of his cameras, Arun gives us a detailed walk around the HAL Dhruv [IN 704] and brings to light views of this helicopter never before seen. Special thanks also goes to B Harry (ACIG.org) for giving us permission to host an image of the HAL Dhruv, for this special feature. Please click on the thumbnails for the big picture and enjoy!

Images © Arun Vishwakarma & B Harry