New Delhi, 03 March (H.S.):

India announced enhancements to its air defence amid US-Israeli strikes on Iran, approving ₹5,083 crore contracts for six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH Mk-2) for the Indian Coast Guard and Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (VL-SRSAM) for the Navy to fortify forward warships against diverse aerial threats.

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh oversaw the South Block signings. HAL secured ₹2,901 crore for ALH Mk-2 with role equipment, engineering support, and performance-based logistics.

Maritime Security Upgrades

HAL's twin-engine ALH Mk-2 features superior avionics to current platforms, enabling shore- and ship-launched maritime missions for artificial islands, offshore platforms, fishing protection, and environmental policing—boosting ICG capabilities and generating 6.5 million man-days while benefiting over 200 MSMEs.

Rosoboronexport's ₹2,182 crore VL-SRSAM deal strengthens naval air defence for rapid, all-weather response in harsh seas, exemplifying enduring India-Russia strategic synergy built on mutual trust.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar