India signed two major defence contracts on 03 March 2026 worth Rs 5,083 crore to strengthen maritime security and naval air defence. The agreements cover six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy. The contracts were signed in New Delhi in the presence of the Defence Secretary.
ALH Mk-III for Coast Guard
The ALH Mk-III (MR) contract is valued at Rs 2,901 crore and has been awarded to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category. The package includes operational role equipment, engineering support, and performance-based logistics support. These twin-engine helicopters are designed for maritime missions. They can operate from shore bases as well as ships at sea. Their induction will improve the Coast Guard’s ability to protect artificial islands, offshore installations, fishermen, and the marine environment.
Boost to Indigenous Manufacturing
The helicopter project is expected to support more than 200 MSMEs. It is also projected to generate around 65 lakh man-hours of employment. The contract supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India initiatives by promoting domestic defence production. The ALH Mk-III platform is considered more advanced than the currently operated airborne systems. It will add flexibility to coastal surveillance, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement operations.
Shtil Missiles for Navy
The second contract, worth Rs 2,182 crore, was signed with JSC Rosoboronexport of the Russian Federation. It covers Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch Shtil missiles and associated missile holding frames. The missiles will strengthen the Indian Navy’s air defence capability on frontline warships. They are intended to counter a wide range of aerial threats and improve survivability in contested maritime environments.
Maritime Security Significance
The two contracts together enhance India’s maritime security architecture. The helicopters will improve coastal and offshore protection, while the missile system will reinforce layered air defence onboard naval platforms. The agreements also reflect the continuing defence partnership between India and Russia. They combine indigenous procurement with external acquisition to meet operational requirements and strengthen naval preparedness.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026