India Strengthens Maritime Defence with Major Helicopter and Missile Acquisition
In a significant move to enhance India’s maritime security and naval defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (India) signed two major defence contracts on 3 March 2026 for the procurement of advanced helicopters and naval air-defence missile systems. The agreements were formalised at South Block in the presence of Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The contracts involve the acquisition of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III in Maritime Role for the Indian Coast Guard and the procurement of Vertical Launch Surface-to-Air Shtil missile systems for the Indian Navy. Together valued at approximately ₹5,083 crore, the deals represent a major step toward strengthening India’s maritime surveillance, search-and-rescue capabilities, and naval air defence.
Boosting the Indian Coast Guard’s Aviation Fleet
A key component of the agreement includes a contract worth nearly ₹2,901 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, India’s premier aerospace manufacturer, for the supply of six ALH Mk-III (Maritime Role) helicopters.
Part of the Dhruv helicopter family, the ALH Mk-III is a versatile twin-engine platform designed for demanding maritime operations. Equipped with advanced avionics and specialised mission systems, the helicopter is capable of conducting a wide range of roles including maritime surveillance, search and rescue missions, medical evacuation, coastal security patrols, and protection of offshore installations.
The helicopters can operate both from coastal air stations and ships at sea, providing the Coast Guard with enhanced operational flexibility across India’s vast maritime zones.
The project will also contribute to India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem by engaging more than 200 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the production and supply chain, generating significant employment and technical expertise within the domestic industry.
Strengthening Naval Air Defence
The second contract, valued at approximately ₹2,182 crore, focuses on strengthening the air-defence capability of Indian naval warships through the procurement of Vertical Launch (VL) Shtil surface-to-air missile systems.
The agreement was signed with Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state arms export agency, for the supply of missiles and associated equipment.
The VL-Shtil missile system is designed to provide area air defence for naval platforms, enabling warships to detect and neutralise aerial threats such as hostile aircraft, drones, and anti-ship missiles. The system is capable of engaging targets in challenging maritime environments and across varying weather conditions.
These missiles will significantly enhance the defensive capabilities of frontline vessels, including the Talwar-class frigate, ensuring improved protection for India’s naval task forces operating across the Indian Ocean Region.
Advancing India’s Maritime Security Strategy
The signing of these contracts reflects India’s broader efforts to modernise its defence forces and strengthen maritime security amid evolving regional challenges.
While the ALH Mk-III acquisition highlights India’s commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing, the missile procurement underscores continued strategic defence cooperation with international partners.
Together, the two deals will enhance operational readiness for both the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy, improving capabilities in surveillance, maritime safety, and air-defence protection.
As India expands its strategic presence across the Indo-Pacific, investments in advanced platforms and systems such as these are expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and ensuring stability in the region.
