Defence ministry inks Rs 2,312-crore deal with HAL for 8 Dornier aircraft for Coast Guard

A Major Boost for Maritime Security

In a significant move to strengthen India's coastal defences, the Ministry of Defence recently finalised a Rs 2,312 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The agreement covers the procurement of eight Dornier 228 aircraft, complete with operational role equipment, specifically for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

Signed under the Buy (Indian) category, this contract underscores the government's push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The signing took place in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, marking a key step in modernising the Coast Guard's fleet.

These versatile twin-engine turboprop aircraft are renowned for their short take-off and landing capabilities, making them ideal for operations along India's extensive 7,500 kilometre coastline.

The Dornier 228 will equip the ICG with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance tools, vital for monitoring the exclusive economic zone and responding swiftly to maritime threats.

Currently, the Coast Guard operates more than 35 such aircraft, and these new additions will significantly ramp up their operational readiness.

From search and rescue missions to anti-smuggling patrols, these planes promise to play a crucial role in safeguarding national waters.

Aligning with Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India

This deal is more than just an aircraft purchase; it's a cornerstone of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at fostering indigenous production and reducing import dependence.

By choosing HAL's Transport Aircraft Division in Kanpur, the ministry is bolstering the domestic aerospace ecosystem.

The project is set to create substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities, invigorating HAL's production lines and supporting a vast network of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) along with ancillary industries.

Beyond initial manufacturing, it opens doors for long-term maintenance, repair, overhaul, and lifecycle technical support, ensuring sustained economic benefits.

HAL, a leading defence public sector undertaking, is already juggling an impressive order book that includes fighters like Tejas, helicopters such as the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and more.

This latest contract fits seamlessly into their expanding portfolio, highlighting their growing prowess in indigenous aviation.

The timing is particularly apt, as HAL recently reported robust financial results, with a notable jump in profits for the December quarter, reflecting strong performance amid rising defence demands.

Such developments signal confidence in India's ability to produce world-class equipment at home.

Enhancing Coast Guard Capabilities and Future Prospects

For the Indian Coast Guard, these aircraft represent a leap in maritime domain awareness.

said a senior Coast Guard official.

These Dornier 228 aircraft will significantly enhance our surveillance over India's vast maritime zones, enabling faster response times in search and rescue, pollution control, and anti-poaching efforts, while supporting our commitment to coastal security,

Their high-wing design offers excellent visibility for maritime patrols, and the inclusion of specialised equipment will sharpen reconnaissance precision.

This infusion comes at a time when India is expanding its maritime interests, making robust aerial assets indispensable.

The contract also ties into broader defence procurements, including recent approvals for electro-optical and infra-red systems to upgrade existing Dornier fleets.

These efforts collectively aim to fortify India's maritime security architecture against evolving challenges like smuggling, illegal fishing, and potential territorial incursions.

By prioritising local manufacturing, the government is not only cutting costs but also building a resilient supply chain less vulnerable to global disruptions.

Looking ahead, this deal paves the way for deeper integration between original equipment manufacturers, operators, and support networks, positioning India as a potential hub for regional defence aviation.

In summary, the Rs 2,312 crore HAL deal for eight Dornier aircraft equips the Coast Guard with cutting-edge tools for maritime vigilance, drives indigenous industry growth, and reinforces self-reliance in defence, promising both immediate operational gains and long-term economic ripple effects.