Bengaluru: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully handed over four Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk III Maritime Role (MR) helicopters to the Indian Coast Guard in a formal ceremony held in Bengaluru today. The delivery is part of an ongoing contract aimed at strengthening India’s maritime surveillance and operational readiness.
Strengthening India’s Maritime Defence Capability
The newly inducted ALH Mk III (MR) helicopters are designed to significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational efficiency across a wide range of maritime missions. The delivery marks another step forward in boosting the country’s indigenous defence aviation capabilities and ensuring timely induction of critical assets.
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Ceremony and Key Dignitaries Present
The handover ceremony was attended by senior officials from both HAL and the Indian Coast Guard.
DIG Rajesh Makwana, TM & Bar, CSO (Aviation), Coast Guard Commander (Western Seaboard), graced the event as the Chief Guest. He was joined by P B Rangarao, Chief Executive Officer of HAL’s Helicopter Complex.
Officials from the Office of the Regional Director, Aeronautical Quality Assurance (ORDAQA) and the Helicopter Division formally handed over the aircraft documents to Coast Guard squadrons based in Kochi and Porbandar.
Part of Major Defence Contract
The four helicopters are part of a nine-unit ALH Mk III (MR) contract signed in March 2024. According to officials, HAL has already delivered 16 ALH Mk III (MR) helicopters to the Indian Coast Guard up to 2022, further expanding its maritime aviation fleet.
Additionally, a new contract for six more helicopters was signed in March 2026, reflecting continued collaboration between HAL and the Coast Guard for strengthening India’s maritime security infrastructure.
Advanced Capabilities of ALH Mk III (MR)
The ALH Mk III Maritime Role variant is a naval adaptation of the indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. It is a twin-engine, multi-role platform capable of performing critical missions such as:
- Maritime surveillance
- Search and rescue (SAR) operations
- Casualty evacuation
- Coastal security and law enforcement
- Troop transport and logistics support
- Anti-piracy operations
- VIP transport missions
Equipped with advanced avionics, a modern glass cockpit, and night operation capability, the helicopter is designed to operate effectively in challenging maritime environments and enhance the Coast Guard’s response readiness.
Boost to Operational Readiness
Officials noted that the timely delivery of these helicopters reinforces the Indian Coast Guard’s rotary-wing fleet and strengthens its ability to respond to emergencies, safeguard coastal regions, and maintain maritime security across India’s vast coastline.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a leading Indian aerospace and defence public sector undertaking engaged in the design, development, manufacturing, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, and related systems. The company plays a key role in advancing India’s indigenous defence production capabilities and supporting the country’s armed forces with modern aviation platforms.
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