- By Priyanka Koul
- Sat, 23 May 2026 12:49 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A senior Indian Army commander and two pilots survived a helicopter crash in the high-altitude Ladakh sector on May 20, prompting the Army to launch a formal investigation into the incident.
The officers had a narrow escape after their helicopter crashed in the mountainous Tangste region near Leh in Ladakh during a routine flight. The helicopter was carrying three Army personnel, including Division Commander Major General Sachin Mehta, along with two pilots. All three sustained minor injuries in the accident.
The chopper, part of the ageing Cheetah helicopter fleet, was reportedly carrying a lieutenant colonel and two majors when it crashed on Wednesday. Officials confirmed the incident on Friday morning.
Meanwhile, a selfie of Major General Mehta taken after the crash has gone viral on social media.
( image credits: social media )
The survival of all three personnel has been described as a "miracle", considering the harsh mountainous terrain and the operational challenges associated with the ageing Cheetah fleet.
To determine the exact cause of the crash, the army has initiated a formal investigation. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to examine the technical, mechanical, and environmental factors that may have led to the accident.
The latest incident has once again reignited concerns over the safety of the Cheetah helicopters, which were inducted into service in the 1970s.
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These helicopters, which also played a crucial role in Operation Meghdoot in 1984 during operations against Pakistani troops in the Siachen Glacier, have been involved in several crashes over the years. Multiple pilots have lost their lives in such accidents in recent times.