Indian Government Approves 34 Advanced Light Helicopters For Army, Indian Coast Guard

Defense News ,India :-  In a significant move towards bolstering national defense capabilities, the Cabinet Committee on Security has granted approval for the acquisition of 34 new Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv choppers. Out of this fleet, nine helicopters are slated for induction into the Indian Coast Guard, while the remaining 25 will be incorporated into the Indian Army.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be tasked with the manufacturing of these helicopters, marking a substantial stride towards promoting indigenous capabilities. According to top government sources, the Indian Coast Guard is set to replace its aging light utility choppers with the allocated nine ALH Dhruv helicopters, while the Indian Army plans to deploy the remaining 25 for various operational roles.

The financial commitment for both projects is estimated to exceed ₹8,000 crore, providing a significant impetus to the ongoing drive for indigenization in the defense sector.

In addition to the helicopter procurement, the government has also given the green light to a project focused on upgrading the BMP infantry combat vehicles within the mechanized infantry directorate of the Indian Army.

The Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) stands as a testament to indigenous innovation, being a multi-role, new-generation helicopter falling within the 5.5-ton weight class. Designed and developed by HAL, this helicopter is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing the country's defense capabilities.