The Ministry of Defence has inked two significant contracts totaling Rs 5,083 crore to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy. The agreements, signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block in New Delhi, include a Rs 2,901 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III in the Maritime Role for the Indian Coast Guard. These helicopters, under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, are equipped with advanced features surpassing current platforms.
The newly acquired twin-engine helicopters are designed for a wide array of maritime security missions, both from shore-based airfields and ships at sea. Ministry of Defence stated that these helicopters incorporate cutting-edge features, enhancing the Coast Guard’s capability to safeguard offshore installations, artificial islands, fishermen, and the marine environment. The project is set to engage over 200 MSMEs in the supply chain, creating approximately 65 lakh man-hours of employment, reflecting the government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiative while bolstering maritime security.
In another significant development, the ministry has finalized a Rs 2,182 crore contract with JSC Rosoboronexport for Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles and associated equipment for the Indian Navy. These missiles are aimed at bolstering the air defense capabilities of frontline warships against diverse aerial threats, providing rapid-reaction and all-weather engagement capability to enhance naval platforms’ survivability in challenging maritime conditions. The agreement underscores the enduring defense partnership between India and Russia, built on mutual trust and strategic cooperation.
