RAWALPINDI: AW-139 (Augusta Westland) helicopters have been inducted into No 88 Search and Rescue squadron of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) on Saturday to enhance its capabilities.
With the induction of this state-of-the-art helicopter on its inventory, this Search and Rescue squadron has been renamed as No 88 Combat Support Squadron and Advanced Helicopter Training School.
“The induction of AW-139 helicopters will considerably enhance the operational capabilities of this squadron and would serve as a conversion unit for the young pilots to train them on this system,” Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman said while addressing a ceremony held in this connection at PAF Base, Shahbaz, in Jacobabad.
He said the induction of those helicopters was a manifestation of PAF’s firm commitment to modernization and capability enhancement.
Sohail Aman said because of versatile roles of the latest helicopters the PAF`s vision of taking its Helo fleet into 21st century could be achieved.
He also inspected guard of honour by a smartly turned out contingent of the force.
A three ship formation, comprising 01 MI 171 and 02 AW 139 Augusta helicopters presented the fly past over the venue.
High ranking military officials along with civil dignitaries were also present on this occasion.
