The Ministry of Defence recently signed defence contracts worth ₹5,083 crore for the procurement of:
- Six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard
- Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch – Shtil missile systems for the Indian Navy
The acquisitions aim to strengthen India’s maritime surveillance, air defence capabilities and indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role)
The contract for six ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru.
Key Details
- Contract value: ₹2,901 crore
- Procurement category: Buy (Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)
- Includes:
- Operational role equipment
- Engineering support package
- Performance-based logistics support
Features and Capabilities
Twin-engine helicopters with state-of-the-art avionics and systems. • Superior capabilities compared to currently operated airborne platforms. • Can operate from:
- Shore-based airfields
- Ships at sea
Operational Role
The helicopters will support a wide range of maritime security operations, including:
- Protection of artificial islands and offshore installations
- Maritime surveillance and search operations
- Protection of fishermen
- Marine environment protection
Industrial and Economic Impact
- Supply chain involvement of over 200 MSMEs.
- Expected generation of approximately 65 lakh man-hours of employment. • Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch – Shtil Missile System
The Ministry of Defence also signed a contract worth ₹2,182 crore with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russia for procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch – Shtil missiles and associated missile holding frames.
Key Features
- Designed for air defence of frontline naval warships.
- Provides protection against a wide spectrum of aerial threats.
- Capable of rapid reaction and all-weather engagement.
Strategic Importance
- Strengthens the layered air defence architecture onboard Indian Navy platforms.
- Enhances survivability of warships in contested maritime environments.
- Improves the Navy’s capability to counter aircraft, drones and incoming missiles.