The Ministry of Defence on Tuesday signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore for the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III in the Maritime Role for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles from Russia for the Indian Navy.

Alongside these acquisitions, the government also signed a contract with M/s Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, Thane, for the construction of four 500T self-propelled fuel barges for the Navy. The agreements have been concluded as the current financial year draws to a close.

Helicopter procurement for maritime operations

The Defence Ministry, in a statement, said that the contract for ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters has been signed with the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Valued at Rs 2,901 crore, the deal includes operational role equipment, an engineering support package and performance-based logistics support.

“These twin-engine helicopters incorporate state-of-the-art features superior to the currently operated airborne platforms and are capable of undertaking a wide spectrum of maritime security missions from shore-based airfields as well as from ships at sea “, the ministry stated.

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The induction of these helicopters is expected to improve the operational reach of the Indian Coast Guard, the statement said. Officials said the platforms will support missions related to the protection of artificial islands, offshore installations, fishermen and the marine environment.

The ministry also highlighted the industrial impact of the project. Equipment for the helicopters will be sourced from more than 200 MSMEs, and the programme is estimated to generate around 65 lakh man-hours of employment.

Missile deal for frontline warships

Separately, the government signed an agreement with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russian Federation for Rs 2,182 crore to procure Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles along with missile holding frames.

According to the ministry, the missiles are meant to strengthen the air defence capabilities of frontline warships and enable them to counter a wide range of aerial threats.

Officials said the system will add another layer to the Navy’s air defence framework by enabling rapid response and all-weather engagement capability, while improving the survivability of ships operating in contested maritime zones.

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“The contract further underscores the longstanding and time-tested defence partnership between India and Russia, founded on mutual trust and strategic alignment,” the statement said.

Barges to support naval logistics

In a separate statement, the government said the newly contracted fuel barges will primarily be used to refuel ships and submarines stationed in harbour and at anchorage.

“With this contract, the Navy continues to encourage and bolster the growth of MSME Shipyards, thereby contributing immensely towards the domestic shipbuilding ecosystem in line with Maritime India Vision 2030,” it said.