New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD), on Tuesday signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore for procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Shtil surface-to-air missiles, PTI reported.
The Rs 2,901 crore contract for ALH (maritime role) with operational equipment, engineering support and performance-based logistics was inked with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), the ministry said.
These twin-engine helicopters with state-of-the-art features superior to existing platforms can undertake a wide range of maritime security missions from shore-based airfields or ships at sea.
“The induction will significantly enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s capability for fulfilling the duties of safety and protection of artificial islands, offshore installations, fishermen and marine environment,” the MoD said.
The Rs 2,182 crore deal for vertical launch Shtil missiles and associated holding frames was signed with Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport.
The acquisition will bolster air defence of frontline warships against a wide spectrum of aerial threats with rapid-reaction, all-weather engagement and improved survivability in contested maritime environments, the ministry said.
The contract underscores the longstanding India-Russia defence partnership based on mutual trust and strategic alignment, it added.
