Andhra Pradesh: Navy bids farewell to UH-3H chopper at Dega, Vizag

Visakhapatnam. Visakhapatnam: The Indian Navy on Friday bid farewell to the UH-3H helicopter after 17 years of glorious service during a de-induction ceremony held at INS Dega in Visakhapatnam. The event was presided over by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command. Senior officers and sailors of the UH3H squadron attended the event along with their families and recalled the service of the helicopter. UH-3H

The de-induction ceremony marks the end of a remarkable era that introduced innovative capabilities in special operations and SAR missions. The operational role of the UH-3H in a constantly evolving and dynamic maritime environment will forever be etched in the history of Indian Naval Aviation, military sources said. The UH-3H helicopter, which was brought to Indian shores with INS Jalashwa in 2007, was inducted into INAS 350 on March 24, 2009 at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam under the name ‘Saras’. This versatile helicopter has provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR)

Its advanced search and rescue (SAR) capabilities and logistics support were crucial during natural disasters. One UH-3H will be permanently displayed at a prominent location in Visakhapatnam, inspiring future generations. The Chief of Staff, ENC handed over a commemorative plaque to the State Government. The plaque was received by Collector Mayur Ashok.