Golden jubilee celebrations of helicopter training school (HTS) at INS Rajali, Arakkonam

Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 561 also known as Helicopter Training School (HTS), celebrated its Golden Jubilee at INS Rajali, Arakonam on September 15th. Rear Admiral Philipose G Pynumootil, Flag Officer Naval Aviation was the Chief Guest for the event which also witnessed participation from many serving and retired alumni of the HTS.

A series of events have been organised by the Squadron to commemorate 50 years of commissioning of the illustrious training establishment. These included a Motorcycle Expedition from INS Garuda, Kochi to INS Rajali, Arakkonam, Commemorative Postal Folio Release, the inauguration of Chetak Static Display. A spectacular Composite Flypast by various helicopters of the Indian Navy was undertaken at INS Rajali.

Squadron ab-initio helicopter training squadron of the Indian Navy commissioned on 15 Sep 1971 at INS Garuda Kochi.

The Squadron is the only ab-initio helicopter training squadron of the Indian Navy and was commissioned on 15 September 1971 at INS Garuda Kochi. The squadron was later rebased to its present location at INS Rajali, Arakkonam in June 1992 and ever since the squadron has been the alma mater of all helicopter pilots of the Indian Navy.

The year 2021 marks the Golden Jubilee of the squadron, and also 60 years of induction of Chetak helicopters into the Naval Air Arm.

An e-Almanac, along with a Motivational Telefilm released by the Admiral