SP’s Land Forces(SP’s). What is the role of the Army Aviation Corps(AAC)?

Additional Director General Army Aviation Corps(ADGAAC). Role of AAC is to provide Reconnaissance, Surveillance, Utility and Combat aviation support for full spectrum operations of the Indian Army(IA).

SP’s. Is the AAC completely independent of the Indian Airforce (IAF) in terms of infrastructure like helicopter bases, overhaul, maintenance etc?

ADGAAC. AAC since it was raised on November 1, 1986 i.e. during the past two decades, has grown exponentially to cater for divergent requirements of the IA in the Tactical Battle Area. Along this path of growth, we have established our own bases, our own infrastructure with training facilities for both aircrew and ground crew with a sound techno logistic support system. With these developments and support systems, our operational capabilities have been greatly enhanced. AAC has also established its own Aviation School to train abinitio pilots as well as provide specialised training for instructors. Thus, AAC has emerged as an independent entity fully integrated with the IA philosophies and doctrine.

SP’s. Could you elaborate on the operational philosophy and does it include integration with other Services?

ADGAAC. AAC is a specialised arm suitably equipped with capability to operate across the entire conflict spectrum. It has the capability to operate at the tactical level and also in conjunction with other Services at the operational level. Integration of AAC into all facets of operational and tactical scenarios is a major factor in achieving overall success during modern combat. The operational philosophy hinges around this fact during joint and combined operations as well as sub conventional operations.

SP’s. What role is the AAC performing in the ongoing low intensity conflict in J&K and the North East region? Is this role intended to be expanded in the future?

ADGAAC. The low intensity conflict has been going on in J&K and North East for some time now. AAC is an extension of the land forces rather than an independent aviation arm. We regularly undertake missions in support of ground forces and also in aiding civil authorities as and when required. Transportation of stores, troops and surveillance are part of our employment philosophy.

SP’s. If India were to acquire a rapid reaction capability for the plains and the mountains, what would be the role of AAC and how does Dhruv fit in due to its capability to carry 12 to 14 personnel?

ADGAAC. The dynamics of modern day battlefield demand that in order to exploit the opportunity in time and space, speed and flexibility of action be available with the field force commander. Timely application of resources in the tactical battlefield area in a faster timeframe is possible with aviation support. Integral tactical lift capability is planned to be provided to field formations which will form an important part of the rapid reaction capability. Dhruv helicopters will form an integral part of such an effort as and when required.

SP’s. Have you acquired attack helicopters and if so, are your pilots fully capable of operating them?

ADGAAC. Presently, AAC has not acquired attack helicopters. As of now, IAF provides the attack helicopters support as per our requirement. However, modern warfare philosophy envisages integration of attack helicopters with mechanised formations and employment in consonance with ground forces operations. To fully exploit the non linear battlefield, it is essential that attack helicopter resources be an integral component with the field force commander. Our pilots are posted with IAF in attack helicopter squadrons and we also have a nucleus of suitably trained aviators. Therefore, transition will not be a difficult process, as and when it is approved.