ALH Mk-III: India’s Ministry of Defence has signed a large defence deal worth ₹5,083 crore. This agreement includes six Advanced Light Helicopters Mk-III for the Indian Coast Guard and Shtil surface to air vertical launch missile systems for the Indian Navy. Officials say this move will make India’s sea borders safer and stronger.
The ministry shared the news on social media and said, “Ministry of Defence today signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 Cr to bolster India’s maritime and air defence capabilities. ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters for the @IndiaCoastGuard (Rs 2,901 Cr) will enhance maritime security with indigenously developed platforms. Surface-to-Air Vertical…”.
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The new helicopters are expected to help the Coast Guard protect offshore oil platforms, artificial islands, fishing communities and the marine environment. India has a long coastline and many important sea routes, so strong air support is very important.
ALH Mk-III: Features
The helicopters will be built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category. This means the aircraft are designed and made in India. They are specially modified for the Indian Coast Guard and are built for maritime missions.
The ALH Mk-III Maritime Role version is powered by two Shakti-1H1 engines. These engines help the helicopter fly smoothly even in difficult sea weather. The aircraft has a 270-degree surveillance radar which allows it to scan a wide area around it. It also carries a multi spectral electro optical pod that helps in tracking targets during day and night.
The helicopter is fitted with a 12.7 mm machine gun for security missions. It also has a high intensity searchlight and even a small Medical ICU setup for rescue missions. This makes it useful during emergencies at sea. The blades and tail can be folded manually, so the helicopter can be stored easily on naval ships. This feature is very important for ship based operations.
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The ALH platform has already been used by the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It has proved its strength in high altitude areas and tough weather. Over the years it has become one of India’s main helicopter platforms.
How it Strengthens Maritime Security?
The ALH Mk-III (MR) has smart radar and strong night vision, so it can spot danger like drones, unknown boats, or pirates from a long distance.
This helicopter can do many jobs like it has weapons for security work and medical tools for rescue missions. It can stop illegal work at sea, support anti piracy missions, and save people during emergencies. Its blades can fold, so it can land and stay on ships easily helping during patrols across India’s long coastline
