In a first, an all-BSF air crew today flew its maiden helicopter sortie carrying Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju in Assam.
The country's largest border guarding force, which used to have a mix crew of IAF and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) onboard its choppers till now, has now recruited retired air force pilots in its ranks.
Today's flight was made in a new Mi-17 V5 BSF helicopter that was purchased by the force in 2015.
"This is a significant achievement and shows the confidence and capability of managing its (BSF) resources and expanding the operational envelop of recently inducted modern Mi-17 V5 choppers," a Home Ministry statement said.
Till now, the BSF aircrafts were being operated by aircrew from the Indian Air Force, it said.
The BSF air wing was raised in 1969.
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