Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) have inked a deal for the purchase of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk IIIs.
According to the Indian Ministry of Defense, the INR80.7 billion (USD973.8 million) contract was announced on March 13 and includes nine ALH Dhruv Mk IIIs for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and 25 ALH Dhruv Mk IIIs for the Indian Army, each equipped with role-specific equipment.
The ALH Dhruv Mk III UT (Utility), the Indian Army version, is designed for Search & Rescue, Troop Transportation, Internal Cargo, Recce/ Casualty Evacuation etc. It has proved its performance in high altitude regions like Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.
The ALH Mk III MR (Maritime Role), the ICG version, is designed for Maritime Surveillance and Interdiction, Search and Rescue, Rappelling Operations and also for Cargo & Personnel Transportation, Pollution Response using external cargo carrying capability and Medical Casualty Evacuation. It has proved its mettle even in adverse atmospherics conditions over sea and land.
