SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a strategic move to address its maritime capability gaps, the Indian Navy has initiated government-to-government discussions with the United States and France for the procurement of twin-engine light Naval Utility Helicopters (NUHs). According to sources familiar with the development, the Navy has reached out to the embassies of both nations and engaged with leading manufacturers, including European aerospace giant Airbus, to acquire all-weather, twin-engine NUHs.
The Indian Navy has outlined specific requirements for the helicopters, emphasizing their critical role in enhancing operational flexibility. The NUHs are expected to be in the 5-tonne weight category and equipped with folding blades to enable seamless operations from warships to shore and vice versa. This procurement aligns with the Navy’s long-standing need for 111 such helicopters to strengthen its maritime surveillance, logistics, and search-and-rescue capabilities.
The outreach to global manufacturers and foreign governments underscores India’s intent to modernize its naval aviation fleet with advanced, reliable platforms capable of operating in diverse and challenging maritime environments. While discussions are in the early stages, the Navy’s focus on all-weather, twin-engine helicopters highlights the priority given to versatility and operational readiness.
As the procurement process progresses, further details on potential suppliers, timelines, and technical specifications are expected to emerge, marking a significant step toward bolstering India’s naval capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.
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