In a significant move towards bolstering its defense capabilities and promoting indigenous manufacturing, the Cabinet Committee on Security has approved a proposal for the acquisition of 34 new Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv choppers. These helicopters will be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a premier aerospace and defense company in India.
Of the 34 ALH Dhruv helicopters, nine will be inducted into the Indian Coast Guard, while the remaining 25 will be allocated to the Indian Army. This allocation underscores the diverse operational requirements of both the Coast Guard and the Army, with the helicopters expected to serve multiple roles across various missions.
For the Indian Coast Guard, the introduction of nine ALH Dhruv choppers signifies a modernization effort aimed at replacing aging light utility helicopters. Meanwhile, the Indian Army’s acquisition of 25 new helicopters is poised to enhance its operational capabilities across different terrains and scenarios.
This initiative is hailed as a significant step towards indigenization in defense production, aligning with the government’s vision of promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The projects are estimated to be worth over ₹ 8,000 crore, signaling a substantial investment in strengthening India’s defense infrastructure.
In addition to the ALH Dhruv helicopters, the government has also greenlit a project to upgrade the BMP infantry combat vehicles of the mechanized infantry directorate of the Indian Army. This comprehensive approach to modernizing the armed forces reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s defense preparedness and capabilities.
The ALH Dhruv helicopter, known for its versatility and advanced features, represents a significant milestone in India’s aerospace industry. Designed and developed indigenously by HAL, the ALH Dhruv is a state-of-the-art, multi-role helicopter in the 5.5-ton weight class. Its integration into the fleet of the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Army is expected to further bolster India’s defense capabilities and contribute to the country’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
