India Set to Retire Ageing Helicopters: Army & Air Force Plan Major Modernisation Push

New Delhi – In a landmark move to modernise its rotary-wing fleet, the Indian Army and Air Force have initiated a plan to procure 200 new light helicopters, replacing the outdated and increasingly unreliable Chetak and Cheetah models. The long-overdue upgrade marks a major stride in strengthening India's aerial defence and operational readiness.

The new fleet will consist of 120 helicopters for the Army and 80 for the Air Force, according to a Request for Information (RFI) recently issued to potential vendors. The Ministry of Defence is looking to urgently phase out the ageing helicopters—many of which date back to the 1960s—with aircraft featuring modern design, enhanced safety, and advanced avionics.

Phasing Out a Risky Legacy

The Chetak and Cheetah helicopters, long considered workhorses of the Indian armed forces, have shown increasing vulnerability in recent years. Plagued by a high accident rate and lacking critical safety features, their continued use has drawn comparisons to the MiG-21 jets—another outdated platform with a troubling record.

The Army and Air Force are expected to begin retiring these helicopters starting in 2027, coinciding with the phased induction of Light Utility Helicopters.

Multi-Role Capability and Strategic Impact

Once inducted, the new helicopters will be deployed for a variety of roles including border patrol, reconnaissance, rapid troop deployment, medical evacuations, and rescue operations. Crucially, they will be equipped to operate in both day and night conditions and support offensive missions alongside attack helicopters.

Beyond defence enhancement, the initiative is expected to stimulate domestic job creation and boost India’s high-tech manufacturing capabilities—particularly if domestic production is prioritised under the 'Make in India' framework.

The modernisation of the fleet represents a critical step towards ensuring the safety of personnel, improving operational efficiency, and reinforcing India’s strategic capabilities in high-altitude and remote terrains.