NEW DELHI – Indian Air Force has officially inducted the first four of15 Chinook helicopters into the force in Chandigarh on Monday.

Part of a $ 15 billion deal signed with the US in 2015, the Chinookhelicopters can be a game-changer in carrying out high-altitude transportoperations.

In addition, the vertical lift capabilities of the helicopter can also becrucial during rescue and relief, firefighting, aircraft recovery, medicalevacuation and heavy construction operations.

India is now the 19th country in the world to have Chinook helicopters.Manufactured by Boeing, the helicopters have played a crucial role in manywartime as well as peace operations around the world. Capable of carryingloads weighing 23,000 kilos, the Chinook can carry men and material athigh-altitude locations at a maximum speed of 302 kmph.

Reduced vibration, powerful engine and vertical lift capabilities are someof what sets these helicopters apart from other military transporthelicopters around the world.

These also have a range of close to 600 kilometres with night-flyingabilities as well. It can also be fitted with missile systems for offensiveand defensive actions.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that the Chinook helicopterswill add to the operational abilities of the IAF. “Chinook helicopter cancarry out military operations, not only in day but during night too.

Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to bein the fighter fleet,” he said.