Today, the Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth a total of five hundred eighty-three crore rupees for the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-II (for maritime operations) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy. The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi.
The contract for Advanced Light Helicopters, along with operational equipment valued at two thousand nine hundred one crore rupees, has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bengaluru. These twin-engine helicopters incorporate state-of-the-art features that are superior to the currently operated airborne platforms. They are also capable of undertaking a wide range of maritime security missions from both shore-based airfields and ships at sea. This will significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard's ability to fulfill its duties related to the safety and protection of artificial islands and offshore installations, as well as the protection of fishermen and the marine environment.
In a statement, the Ministry said that the contract for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles, valued at two thousand one hundred eighty-two crore rupees, has been signed with JSC Rosoboronexport, Russian Federation. This acquisition is intended to substantially enhance the air defence capabilities of frontline warships against a wide range of aerial threats. The contract further underscores the longstanding and time-tested defence partnership between India and Russia, which is based on mutual trust and strategic alignment.