India Strengthens Maritime Defence With ALH Mk III And Shtil Missile Systems

Defence acquisition decision

India Strengthens Maritime Defence With ALH Mk III And Shtil Missile Systems: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently signed two major defence contracts to strengthen India’s maritime security framework. The agreements include the procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk-III in Maritime Role (MR) for the Indian Coast Guard and the acquisition of Vertical Launch Shtil surface-to-air missile systems for the Indian Navy.

These procurements aim to improve India’s ability to monitor maritime zones, respond quickly to threats, and enhance operational readiness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Static GK fact: The Ministry of Defence is responsible for the defence of India and the management of the Indian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Features of ALH Mk III Maritime Role

The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk-III is a twin-engine multi-role helicopter developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru. It is equipped with modern avionics, integrated navigation systems, and advanced surveillance equipment.

The helicopter can operate both from shore-based airfields and naval ships at sea, enabling flexibility during maritime operations. Its design supports missions such as search and rescue (SAR), coastal surveillance, maritime patrol, anti-smuggling operations, and disaster response.

The procurement has been carried out under the Buy (Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, which is the highest priority procurement category under India’s defence acquisition policy.

Static GK Tip: The ALH series helicopters are popularly known as “Dhruv,” developed indigenously by HAL.

Role in maritime security

The Indian Coast Guard plays a crucial role in protecting India’s 7,516 km coastline and safeguarding maritime interests such as fisheries protection, pollution control, and anti-piracy operations.

Deployment of ALH Mk-III helicopters will enhance aerial surveillance and rapid response capability across India’s maritime zones, especially in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

These helicopters also support humanitarian missions, including medical evacuation and disaster relief operations during cyclones or maritime accidents.

Static GK fact: India’s Exclusive Economic Zone extends up to 200 nautical miles from its coastline under international maritime law.

Shtil missile system capability

The second contract focuses on procuring Vertical Launch Shtil missiles, which are medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems designed for naval defence.

The Shtil missile system provides rapid-reaction and all-weather air defence capability, enabling naval ships to intercept incoming aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, drones, and anti-ship missiles.

The system significantly enhances survivability of naval platforms operating in contested maritime environments, particularly during high-intensity naval warfare.

The contract has been signed with JSC Rosoboronexport, the state intermediary agency responsible for Russia’s defence exports.

Static GK Tip: Rosoboronexport is part of the Russian state corporation Rostec and handles military equipment exports to multiple countries.

Strengthening indigenous defence ecosystem

The procurement of ALH Mk-III helicopters from HAL supports India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence manufacturing. Indigenous defence production reduces import dependence and promotes domestic technological capabilities.

Simultaneously, the Shtil missile acquisition improves layered air defence capability of Indian naval vessels, strengthening maritime deterrence in the Indian Ocean Region.

Together, these acquisitions represent a balanced approach combining indigenous manufacturing and strategic international cooperation to enhance India’s defence preparedness.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

India Strengthens Maritime Defence With ALH Mk III And Shtil Missile Systems: