New Delhi: The Indian Navy has released a Request for Information (RFI) to acquire 76 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUHs), in a major step to boost India’s maritime capabilities. According to details shared on the Navy’s website, 51 helicopters are earmarked for the Navy and 25 for the Indian Coast Guard.
This acquisition highlights the growing role of rotary-wing platforms in expanding India’s reach across its coastline and exclusive economic zone.
Multi-Role Utility for Sea and Shore
The NUHs are envisioned as versatile platforms for varied missions. Their operational roles will include search and rescue, casualty evacuation, coastal communications, aerial firefighting, and humanitarian assistance.
The helicopters must also perform maritime surveillance and low-intensity missions while operating from both warships and coastal bases. They are expected to function in day and night conditions, across demanding weather scenarios, ensuring uninterrupted support for critical missions.
‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ Pathway with ToT Focus
The acquisition will proceed under the ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ category, reinforcing the government’s push for defence indigenisation. Foreign vendors or Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will be required to partner with Indian defence firms for licensed production and technology transfer.
The Ministry of Defence has underlined Transfer of Technology (ToT) as a pivotal clause. This ensures Indian industries gain long-term benefits, fostering local production and reducing dependency on imports, in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Procurement Process and Evaluation
The selection will follow a single-stage, two-bid format requiring vendors to submit technical and financial proposals separately. A Technical Evaluation Committee will review submissions, with shortlisted firms advancing to field evaluation trials in India on a no-cost, no-commitment basis.
The winning supplier will also be bound to provide logistics support, including spares, special tools, and ground support equipment. Financial safeguards such as earnest money deposits and a 5% performance-cum-warranty bond will ensure lifecycle reliability.
Strategic Significance for India’s Maritime Power
The NUH programme is designed to modernise both the Navy and Coast Guard aviation fleets, enhancing mobility, disaster response, and coastal security. The induction of these helicopters will strengthen India’s ability to counter piracy, smuggling, and maritime accidents, while improving surveillance in the Indian Ocean Region.
The deadline for vendor responses is October 17, 2025, with final partners to be selected based on performance trials and cost-effectiveness. If executed efficiently, the NUH acquisition will expand India’s maritime reach and accelerate growth in the indigenous aerospace ecosystem.
