New Delhi | The Government of India has signed two major defence contracts worth ₹5,083 crore to strengthen maritime security and air defence capabilities. The agreements include the procurement of ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and VL-Shtil air defence missiles for the Indian Navy.
Modern Helicopters for the Coast Guard
The larger share of the deal—worth about ₹2,901 crore—covers the purchase of six twin-engine ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under the Atmanirbhar Bharat framework. The helicopters fall under the Buy (Indian–IDDM) category, indicating that most of the technology has been designed and developed in India.
These helicopters will support critical maritime missions such as search and rescue, coastal surveillance, protection of fishermen, security of offshore installations, and environmental monitoring. They can operate both from land-based airfields and from ships at sea.
Technically advanced, the helicopters are powered by twin Shakti engines, enabling a top speed of around 275 km/h and an endurance of nearly 3.5 hours. They have a maximum take-off weight of approximately 5,750 kilograms.
The aircraft will also feature a modern glass cockpit, advanced radar systems, electro-optical and infrared sensors, high-intensity searchlights, and machine guns. Additional equipment such as rescue winches, medical ICU modules, and automatic flight control systems will enhance their effectiveness in emergency operations.
Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027 and continue until 2029, with HAL also providing engineering and logistics support to ensure operational readiness.
Boost to Domestic Industry
The project will involve more than 200 small and medium enterprises across the country, generating an estimated 6.5 million man-hours of employment. The initiative is expected to strengthen India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The new helicopters are also expected to replace several ageing platforms currently operated by the Indian Coast Guard, significantly improving operational efficiency and response capabilities.
VL-Shtil Missiles for the Indian Navy
The second contract, valued at approximately ₹2,182 crore, involves the procurement of VL-Shtil surface-to-air missile systems from Russia’s Rosoboronexport.
The VL-Shtil is an advanced air defence system designed to counter aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, drones and cruise missiles. Using vertical launch technology, the system allows rapid response to incoming threats.
The missile system has a range of about 50 kilometres and can intercept targets at speeds of up to Mach 4.5 with the help of advanced guidance and tracking systems.
Strengthening Naval Air Defence
The missiles will be deployed on frontline warships of the Indian Navy, including vessels from the Delhi-class destroyer, Kolkata-class destroyer, and Talwar-class frigate fleets. They will replace older Shtil systems and enhance the Navy’s layered air defence architecture.
Defence officials said the dual procurement will significantly improve maritime surveillance, rescue capability, and protection of naval assets in the Indian Ocean region. The deals also underline the continuing defence cooperation between India and Russia while advancing domestic manufacturing goals.
