New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) 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 Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch (VL)-Shtil) missiles for the Indian Navy.
The agreements were formalised at South Block 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 deal includes:
- Six ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters
- Operational role equipment
- Engineering support package
- Performance-based logistics support
Advanced Maritime Capabilities
The twin-engine ALH Mk-III helicopters are equipped with advanced systems and are capable of conducting a wide range of maritime security missions from:
- Shore-based airfields
- Ships deployed at sea
According to the Ministry, the induction of these helicopters will significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to:
- Safeguard artificial islands
- Protect offshore installations
- Ensure the safety of fishermen
- Preserve the marine environment
Employment Generation and Indigenous Push
The ALH project is expected to source equipment from over 200 MSMEs, generating approximately 65 lakh man-hours of employment.
The contract aligns with the Government’s flagship initiatives:
- Make in India
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat
This move further strengthens India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing while enhancing maritime security preparedness.
₹2,182 Crore Deal for VL-Shtil Missiles
In a separate agreement, the Defence Ministry signed a ₹2,182 crore contract with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russian Federation.
The contract covers the procurement of:
- Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch (VL)-Shtil missiles
- Associated missile holding frames
Strengthening Naval Air Defence
The VL-Shtil missile system will enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline Indian Navy warships against a broad spectrum of aerial threats.
Key benefits include:
- Rapid-reaction capability
- All-weather engagement
- Improved survivability in contested maritime environments
- Strengthening of layered air defence architecture
Strengthening India’s Maritime Security Framework
With these two major defence deals, the Ministry of Defence has taken a significant step toward modernising India’s maritime forces. The procurement of advanced helicopters and missile systems is expected to enhance operational readiness, boost indigenous manufacturing, and reinforce the country’s maritime security framework.
