The Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of 76 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH), along with simulators and associated equipment, to boost the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy (51 helicopters) and the Indian Coast Guard (25 helicopters).
The acquisition falls under the “Buy & Make (Indian)” category, aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and Make in India initiative. The helicopters are intended to strengthen India’s maritime capabilities in areas such as search and rescue (SAR), utility operations, casualty evacuation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), aerial firefighting, and low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO).
Key Specifications Outlined in the RFI:
- Proven Service Record: Helicopters must have at least five years of operational service with a Navy or Marine service in the specified configuration. Prototypes or helicopters still under development will not be considered.
- Weight & Design: Maximum All-Up Weight (AUW) of 5,500 kg, twin-engine configuration, and articulated rotor system.
- Shipborne Operations: Wheeled landing gear and blade-fold capability for shipboard hangar stowage.
- All-Weather Operations: Capable of day and night missions in diverse weather conditions from both ships and shore bases.
- LIMO Role: Integration of weapons like 12.7 mm Heavy Machine Guns (HMG) and 7.62 mm Medium Machine Guns (MMG) for maritime security operations.
Expected Operational Roles:
- Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) at sea.
- Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC)/Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC).
- Passenger and cargo transport duties.
- LIMO operations for maritime security.
- HADR missions during natural calamities.
- Aerial firefighting support.
The RFI emphasizes the inclusion of simulators and associated training systems to ensure high levels of operational readiness. It also highlights India’s push for domestic manufacturing and technological self-reliance, requiring global vendors to collaborate with Indian defence manufacturers for production.
This RFI marks the first step in the procurement process, inviting both domestic and international vendors to submit detailed proposals. The MoD expects responses that showcase helicopters with proven track records and the ability to integrate advanced systems tailored to the Navy and Coast Guard’s operational requirements.
