Kabul: Three out of four multipurpose helicopters named Mi-35 given by India to Afghanistan are ready to be used against terrorism.
Notably, Helmand battle will be the first battle in which these helicopters will be used, Defence Ministry said.

"We have always been helped by India. The helicopters donated by India to Afghanistan have been assembled, and will help us fight terrorists, "Deputy Chief of procurement of the Defense Ministry Ghulam Sakhi Ahmadzai said.

Abdul Wahab Wardak, the Air Force commander thanked India and other global countries for cooperating and helping the country in bringing stability and peace.
"The Indian helicopters are very suitable for the climate and the location of the country and they can give further morale to the security forces in their operations against terrorists," he added.

"As we are helped by India and the US, we need the same cooperation from other countries because the Taliban, Daesh and al-Qaeda are not only the enemy for Afghanistan but the enemy of any country in the world," Mr Wardek said.

Sujit Narain, India's Defense Attache in Kabul also expressed happiness that the helicopters are operational for the Afghan Air Force.

"We consider Afghanistan as our close friend and we will further help this country," said Mr Narain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi handed over the three helicopters to Afghanistan during his visit to Kabul in December last year. The fourth helicopter will soon be delivered. (Inputs from agencies)(image:en.wikipedia.org)