Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has formally delivered four DHRUV MK-III Maritime Role helicopter helicopters to the Indian Coast Guard at a ceremony held in Bangalore on Friday. This delivery highlights the strong and ongoing partnership between the government-owned aerospace firm and the country’s maritime defense force. With this handover, HAL confirmed it has met its scheduled delivery commitments, a development that is set to enhance the Coast Guard’s operational preparedness and surveillance reach along India’s extensive coastline.

The transfer was completed through the formal handover of official aircraft documentation. These were issued by the Office of the Regional Director, Aeronautical Quality Assurance, in coordination with the Helicopter Division, and delivered to Coast Guard units stationed in Kochi and Porbandar. The four helicopters are part of a broader agreement for nine DHRUV MK-III (MR) units signed in March 2024. This follows an earlier phase in which HAL supplied 16 similar helicopters to the Coast Guard by 2022.

The expansion of the fleet reflects growing reliance on indigenous technology. Additionally, a new order for six more helicopters was placed in March 2026, ensuring continued induction of advanced maritime assets. The DHRUV MK-III (MR) is the maritime variant of the indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. Designed as a twin-engine platform, it is built to operate effectively in challenging sea conditions.

It supports a wide range of missions, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and casualty evacuation. Its multi-role capability also enables its use in coastal security, law enforcement, and anti-piracy operations. Beyond security roles, the helicopter is also suited for logistics, troop movement, and VIP transport, allowing the Coast Guard to handle everything from emergency response to critical security operations efficiently.