In a significant boost to India’s maritime security and naval air defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth ₹5,083 crore for the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch (VL) Shtil missile systems for the Indian Navy. The agreements were formalised at South Block, New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
₹2,901-Crore Deal For ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role)
The ₹2,901-crore contract for the ALH Mk-III (MR) has been awarded to Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, reinforcing the government’s focus on domestic defence production.
The twin-engine helicopters, equipped with advanced avionics and operational role equipment, will be deployed for a wide spectrum of maritime missions. Designed for operations from both shore-based airfields and ships at sea, the platforms significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to:
- Safeguard artificial islands and offshore installations
- Protect fishermen and coastal communities
- Monitor and preserve the marine environment
- Respond swiftly to maritime contingencies
The contract also includes an engineering support package and performance-based logistics support, ensuring long-term operational readiness.
Importantly, the project envisages sourcing equipment from over 200 MSMEs, generating an estimated 65 lakh man-hours of employment. The deal strengthens the Government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives while reinforcing India’s maritime security architecture.
₹2,182-Crore Contract For VL-Shtil Missile Systems
The MoD also signed a ₹2,182-crore contract with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russia for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch (VL) Shtil missiles and associated missile holding frames.
The system is designed to substantially enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline Indian Navy warships, enabling them to counter a wide spectrum of aerial threats. The VL-Shtil system offers:
- Rapid-reaction capability
- All-weather engagement
- Enhanced survivability in contested maritime environments
- Strengthened layered air defence architecture
The acquisition reflects the strategic defence partnership between India and Russia, built on decades of mutual trust and cooperation.
Strengthening Maritime And Naval Preparedness
Together, the two contracts represent a calibrated approach to bolstering both coastal security and blue-water naval operations. While the ALH Mk-III helicopters enhance surveillance, rescue and maritime response capabilities, the VL-Shtil missile systems fortify frontline warships with advanced defensive firepower.
The twin procurements mark another decisive step in modernising India’s maritime forces while advancing indigenous manufacturing and sustaining key international defence partnerships.