The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed two capital acquisition contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore to strengthen the maritime capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy.
The first contract, valued at Rs 2,901 crore, has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard. The helicopters will be equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and sensors, enhancing the Coast Guard’s capability in maritime surveillance, search and rescue, coastal security and protection of offshore assets.
The procurement has been undertaken under the Buy (Indian – IDDM) category, promoting indigenous design, development and manufacturing. The project is expected to generate substantial employment and encourage participation of MSMEs, thereby giving a boost to the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The second contract, amounting to Rs 2,182 crore, has been concluded with JSC Rosoboronexport for procurement of VL-Shtil surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Navy. The missile systems will significantly enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline naval warships against diverse aerial threats under all-weather conditions.
These contracts mark a major step towards augmenting India’s maritime security architecture and strengthening operational preparedness of the armed forces.
