New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has signed contracts worth Rs 5,083 crore to procure helicopters and missiles for maritime security and air-defence needs.
According to an official statement, the government has approved the purchase of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-2 for the Coast Guard. The deal, valued at Rs 2,901 crore, has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The twin-engine helicopters are expected to offer more advanced technology features compared with the helicopters currently in service. Officials said the induction will help the Coast Guard carry out coastal protection duties more effectively and enhance its operational capability.
In a separate contract, the ministry has signed an agreement worth Rs 2,182 crore with Russia’s JSC Rosoboronexport to procure Shtil missiles. The missiles are intended to counter aerial threats and significantly improve air-defence capabilities, strengthening the Navy’s air-defence architecture.
Together, the two contracts amount to Rs 5,083 crore, the statement said.
