The Ministry of Defence on Tuesday signed contracts worth ₹5,083 crore for the procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Navy, strengthening India’s maritime security and air defence capabilities.
The agreements were formalised at South Block in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
₹2,901 Crore Contract for ALH Mk-III Helicopters
The Ministry awarded a ₹2,901 crore contract to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru, under the ‘Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)’ category.
The package includes:
- Operational role equipment
- Engineering support package
- Performance-based logistics support
These twin-engine ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters are equipped with advanced avionics and are capable of operating from coastal airfields as well as ships at sea.
Boost to Maritime Security
The induction of these helicopters will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to safeguard:
- Artificial islands
- Offshore installations
- Fishermen
- Marine environment
The move is expected to significantly improve surveillance and rapid response in coastal and offshore areas.
Major Push for MSMEs and ‘Make in India’
The Ministry stated that equipment for the project will be sourced from over 200 MSMEs, generating an estimated 65 lakh man-hours of employment.
The deal aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and boosting the maritime security framework.
₹2,182 Crore Deal for VL-Shtil Missiles
In a separate agreement, the Ministry signed a ₹2,182 crore contract with Russia-based JSC Rosoboronexport for the procurement of VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles and associated missile holding frames for the Indian Navy.
Strengthening Naval Air Defence
The VL-Shtil missile system will enhance the air defence capability of frontline naval warships against a range of aerial threats. According to the Ministry, the system will reinforce the Navy’s multi-layered air defence shield by enabling:
- Rapid response in challenging maritime conditions
- All-weather target engagement
- Improved survivability of naval platforms
Enhancing India’s Maritime Defence Readiness
With the twin procurement of advanced helicopters and missile systems, India continues to modernise its naval and coastal defence infrastructure. These acquisitions are expected to significantly boost operational preparedness and strengthen India’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region.
