India Signs Major Defence Contract with HAL for Coast Guard Aircraft
The Ministry of Defence has formalised a significant agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), specifically its transport aircraft division based in Kanpur, for the acquisition of eight Dornier 228 aircraft. This deal, valued at Rs 2,312 crore, includes Operational Role Equipment for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and falls under the Buy (Indian) category, emphasising domestic procurement.
Contract Formalisation and Strategic Importance
The contract was signed in New Delhi on February 12, 2026, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. This move is poised to substantially enhance the operational readiness of the Indian Coast Guard by providing state-of-the-art surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities across India's extensive maritime domain. The Dornier 228 aircraft are renowned for their versatility and reliability in maritime patrol missions.
Boosting Indigenous Production and Employment
This programme is expected to fortify HAL's production ecosystem, fostering a robust network of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and ancillary industries. It will generate significant direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing to economic growth. Additionally, the contract ensures sustained prospects in maintenance, repair, overhaul, and lifecycle technical support, promoting long-term industrial development.
Alignment with National Initiatives
The deal strongly aligns with the government's focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and the Make-in-India initiative, reinforcing efforts to reduce dependency on foreign defence imports. By enhancing India's maritime security capabilities, it supports national sovereignty and coastal protection strategies, marking a step forward in bolstering domestic defence manufacturing.
