The Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth ₹5,083 crore for the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missile systems for the Indian Navy.
The twin procurements aim to strengthen India’s maritime surveillance, coastal security, and naval air defence capabilities.
ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) for Indian Coast Guard
The contract for six ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru, under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category. The deal is valued at ₹2,901 crore.
The package includes:
- Operational role equipment
- Engineering support package
- Performance-based logistics support
These twin-engine helicopters are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offer enhanced capabilities compared to currently operated airborne platforms. They can operate from both shore-based airfields and ships at sea.
The induction of these helicopters will significantly improve the Coast Guard’s ability to:
- Safeguard artificial islands and offshore installations
- Protect fishermen
- Preserve the marine environment
- Conduct maritime surveillance and security missions
The project is expected to involve over 200 MSMEs and generate approximately 65 lakh man-hours of employment. It reinforces the government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Make-in-India initiative while strengthening India’s maritime security framework.
Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch – Shtil Missiles for Indian Navy
The second contract, valued at ₹2,182 crore, has been signed with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russian Federation for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles along with associated missile holding frames.
The acquisition is aimed at enhancing the air defence capabilities of frontline naval warships against a broad range of aerial threats.
The Shtil system will:
- Strengthen the layered air defence architecture onboard naval platforms
- Provide rapid-reaction, all-weather engagement capability
- Improve survivability in high-threat maritime environments
This agreement also reflects the longstanding and strategic defence partnership between India and Russia, built on mutual trust and cooperation.
Strategic Significance
Together, these contracts mark a significant step in bolstering India’s maritime and naval defence preparedness. While the ALH Mk-III helicopters enhance coastal and maritime security operations, the Shtil missile system strengthens naval air defence, ensuring greater protection of India’s maritime interests.