H160M Helicopters: Tata Advanced Systems Limited is preparing to take part in a major defence project for the Indian Navy. The company is working with Airbus and together they plan to offer the H160M helicopter for India’s Naval Utility Helicopter programme. The helicopters would be produced in India if the proposal is selected.
The project is focused on supplying 76 new helicopters that will support naval and coastal operations. These aircraft will be replacing the old Chetak helicopters that have been used by the Indian armed forces for many years.
This proposal is also a part of the government’s bigger plan to increase local manufacturing in the defence sector and boost its economy. By building helicopters inside the country India hopes to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen its own aerospace industry.
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Navy and Coast Guard Looking for New Multi-Role Helicopters
The Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard announced their requirement for new helicopters in August 2025. At that time both forces issued a Request for Information for 76 twin engine helicopters that can perform many roles at sea.
Out of the total number 51 helicopters are planned for the Indian Navy while 25 will be used by the Coast Guard. These aircraft will handle a wide range of tasks during maritime missions.
The helicopters will be used for search and rescue operations at sea and to evacuate injured personnel during emergencies. They will also carry passengers and supplies between ships and coastal bases. In addition the aircraft will help with coastal security and other low intensity operations that require quick response from the air.
The tender also sets some clear technical requirements. The helicopters must belong to the 5 to 6 ton weight category and must already have at least five years of operational experience with naval forces somewhere in the world. This rule ensures the selected aircraft is reliable for difficult sea conditions and ship based operations.
H160M Helicopter: Made in India Solution
The helicopter that Tata and Airbus want to offer is called the H160M and is the military model of the H160 helicopter series. The aircraft is made with modern materials and new electronic systems which help it perform better and make flying safer.
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The H160M is designed to operate from the decks of naval ships. Its compact structure allows it to land on frigates, destroyers and offshore patrol vessels without difficulty. The aircraft also includes a large cabin that can carry personnel, equipment or injured crew members during rescue missions.
A major advantage for the Tata Airbus partnership is the manufacturing ecosystem already developing in India. In February 2026 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron opened a new helicopter assembly facility in Vemagal, Karnataka. This Final Assembly Line was created through a joint venture between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems.
The facility currently produces the H125 helicopter but it also shows how quickly production capability can grow inside India. The same type of manufacturing system could later be used to assemble the H160M helicopter if the bid is successful.
Strategic Importance
The Naval Utility Helicopter programme is expected to see competition from several companies. Tata and Airbus will likely compete with other global defence firms that are working with Indian partners.
One major competitor could be the partnership between Leonardo and Adani Defence, which plans to offer the AW169M helicopter. Other helicopters that may enter the competition include the Bell 429 and aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
The H160M helicopter also comes with several modern design features. One example is the Fenestron enclosed tail rotor which helps reduce noise and improves safety when the helicopter operates from ship decks. The aircraft also includes advanced electrical backup systems that help keep it reliable during missions.
If the Tata Airbus proposal moves forward much of the manufacturing work could happen inside India. The partnership plans to handle production, assembly, system integration and long term maintenance locally. Future upgrades for the aircraft could also be carried out within the country.
