ALH Mk-III Helicopters and Shtil Missiles: India’s Ministry of Defence has approved two major defence contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore. The aim is to make the country’s sea borders safer and improve the Navy’s protection against air attacks. These new deals include helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard and missile systems for the Indian Navy.
Out of the total amount, Rs 2,901 crore will be used to buy six Advanced Light Helicopter Mk-III aircraft. The contract has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. Along with the helicopters, the deal also covers extra equipment, engineering support and performance based logistics support.
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New Helicopters for the Coast Guard
The ALH Mk-III is a twin engine helicopter fitted with modern systems. Officials say it is more advanced than many helicopters currently in service. These aircraft can take off from land bases and also from ships in the sea. This gives them more flexibility during missions.
The Indian Coast Guard will use these helicopters for many tasks. They will help in protecting artificial islands and offshore oil installations. They will also support fishermen and help in saving lives during search and rescue operations. In addition, the helicopters can assist in protecting the marine environment and stopping illegal activities at sea. This new addition is expected to increase the operational strength of the Coast Guard in a big way.
The ALH Mk-III is already used by other Indian forces and has proven its performance in tough weather and rough sea conditions. With these new helicopters, the Coast Guard will be able to respond faster during emergencies.
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Missile Deal to Boost Navy’s Air Defence
In another agreement, the ministry signed a Rs 2,182 crore contract with Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport. Under this deal, India will receive Shtil surface to air missiles and related missile holding frames. These vertical launch missile systems will be placed on frontline warships of the Indian Navy.
Officials said the Shtil missile system will make the Navy stronger against different kinds of air threats. It can respond quickly and work in all weather conditions. This will improve the layered air defence system on board naval ships and increase their survivability in difficult sea situations.
The government also said this agreement shows the strong defence partnership between India and Russia. Both countries have worked together in defence for many years based on mutual trust and strategic cooperation.
