Defence Ministry signs contract worth ₹5,083 crore with HAL for acquisition of military helicopters, surface-to-air missiles

The Ministry of Defense on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, signed contracts worth a total of ₹ 5,083 crore for the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-II (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch-Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy.

While ALH Mk-II helicopters are being procured for the Indian Coast Guard, Shtil missiles will also be deployed on warships of the Indian Navy.

“ALH Mk-III contract [maritime role] Operational role equipment, along with an engineering support package and performance-based logistics support worth ₹ 2,901 crore have been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, the ministry said.

It was stated that these twin-engine helicopters have state-of-the-art features superior to currently operated aerial platforms and are capable of undertaking a wide range of maritime security missions from ships at sea as well as coastal airfields.

“This initiative will significantly enhance the ability of the Indian Coast Guard to discharge its duties of security and protection of artificial islands, offshore facilities and protection of fishermen and the marine environment,” the ministry said.

The contract worth Rs 2,182 crore for the supply of surface-to-air Vertical Launch-Shtil missiles and associated missile holding frames was signed with Russia’s JSC Rosobor for export.

The purchase aims to significantly increase the air defense capabilities of frontline warships against a wide range of air threats, the ministry said.

“The system will strengthen the layered air defense architecture on Indian Navy platforms by providing rapid response, all-weather engagement capability and enhanced survivability in contested maritime environments,” he said.

“The agreement underlines the long-standing and time-tested defense partnership between India and Russia, built on mutual trust and strategic alignment,” the statement said.

(With inputs from PTI)