India Signs Defence Deal for ALH Mk-III Helicopters and Shtil Missiles
New Delhi: In a significant push to strengthen maritime security and air defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence has signed two major contracts worth ₹5,083 crore for the acquisition of advanced helicopters and surface-to-air missile systems for the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy.
The agreements were finalised at South Block in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, marking another step in India’s ongoing military modernisation drive.
Boost for Coast Guard: ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role)
A ₹2,901 crore contract has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III in the maritime role configuration. The procurement falls under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, reinforcing the government’s emphasis on domestic defence production.
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) March 3, 2026
The twin-engine helicopters are equipped with advanced avionics and mission systems, enabling them to perform a wide range of maritime operations, including surveillance, search and rescue, coastal patrol, and protection of offshore assets. The induction of these platforms is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s operational reach and response capability across India’s vast maritime zones.
The project will involve a large network of domestic suppliers, including more than 200 MSMEs, and is projected to generate substantial employment through millions of man-hours of work — further advancing the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
Ministry of Defence today signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 Cr to bolster India’s maritime and air defence capabilities. ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters for the @IndiaCoastGuard (Rs 2,901 Cr) will enhance maritime security with indigenously developed platforms. Surface-to-Air Vertical… pic.twitter.com/Q6Fpt7N2wO
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) March 3, 2026
Strengthening Naval Air Defence
In a parallel move, the government has signed a ₹2,182 crore agreement with JSC Rosoboronexport for the procurement of Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missile systems for the Indian Navy.
The advanced missile systems are designed to bolster the air defence capabilities of frontline warships, offering rapid-reaction and all-weather engagement against a broad spectrum of aerial threats. The acquisition will enhance the layered defence architecture of naval platforms, improving survivability in high-threat maritime environments.
The deal also reflects the continued defence cooperation between India and Russia, built on longstanding strategic ties.
Strategic Impact
Together, the two contracts represent a calibrated approach — combining indigenous manufacturing with strategic international partnerships — to reinforce India’s maritime and naval defence posture. With growing security challenges in the region, the latest acquisitions are expected to play a pivotal role in safeguarding coastal infrastructure, sea lanes, and offshore installations.
