In a major move to strengthen its defence capabilities and push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has signed two significant contracts worth Rs 8,073.17 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru.
Announced on 13th March 2024, these contracts are for the procurement of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk III, tailored for both the Indian Army and the Indian Coast Guard, under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, showcasing a commitment to indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured defence solutions.
The breakdown of the acquisition includes 25 ALHs for the Indian Army and 9 for the Indian Coast Guard, marking a pivotal step towards bolstering India’s defence infrastructure with indigenously produced assets. The ALH Dhruv Mk III UT (Utility) version, designated for the Indian Army, is engineered for versatile operations such as Search & Rescue, Troop Transportation, and Casualty Evacuation, showcasing exceptional performance in challenging terrains like the Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.
On the maritime front, the ALH Mk III MR (Maritime Role) version for the Indian Coast Guard is adept in Maritime Surveillance, Search and Rescue, and Pollution Response, proving its effectiveness over sea and land under adverse weather conditions. This variant’s capability extends to Rappelling Operations as well as Cargo & Personnel Transportation, reinforcing the maritime security and response framework of the country.
This landmark project is not just a stride in modernising India’s defence forces but also a significant contributor to the nation’s economy, expected to generate approximately 190 Lakh Man-Hours of employment throughout its tenure. With over 200 MSMEs and 70 local vendors involved, the initiative is poised to catalyze substantial employment generation within the defence manufacturing sector. This extensive involvement of local industry aligns with the government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, fostering an ecosystem of self-reliance and indigenous innovation.
The Cabinet Committee on Security’s (CCS) approval of these contracts underlines the strategic importance of building a robust defence manufacturing base in India, not just for enhancing military preparedness but also for stimulating economic growth and technological advancements within the country.
