In a landmark development for India’s seafaring forces, the Defence Ministry inked two high-value contracts totaling ₹5,083 crore on March 3. These pacts will equip the Indian Coast Guard with cutting-edge helicopters and arm the Navy with sophisticated Russian missiles, significantly elevating maritime capabilities.
Leading the charge is a ₹2,901 crore contract with Bengaluru-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for six twin-engine ALH Mk-III helicopters optimized for sea duties. Far superior to legacy models, these machines boast advanced avionics, greater payload capacity, and shipboard compatibility.
The helicopters will patrol remote oil rigs, protect man-made maritime structures, and assist distressed fishermen. Their search-and-rescue prowess, coupled with environmental surveillance features, will save lives and secure resources in treacherous waters.
Beyond defense, the project fuels India’s industrial ecosystem. It engages more than 200 SMEs, creating 65 lakh man-hours of work and promoting indigenous production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
On the naval front, a ₹2,182 crore deal with JSC Rosoboronexport delivers vertical-launch Shtil missiles. These surface-to-air interceptors excel in all conditions, swiftly engaging fighter jets, rotary-wing threats, drones, and incoming missiles.
Integrated into key warships, they provide a layered shield against air assaults, vital for power projection in the Indian Ocean Region. The agreement reaffirms the time-tested India-Russia defense axis, a pillar of strategic stability.
These procurements come amid heightened focus on maritime domain awareness. They not only modernize assets but also deter adversaries, ensuring India’s seas remain sovereign and secure.