Cabinet committee on security sanctions HAL's 34 Dhruv choppers for IAF

The government has approved the acquisition of 34 new Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv choppers, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Nine choppers will be allocated to the Indian Coast Guard and 25 to the Indian Army, enhancing domestic defence capabilities and replacing older aircraft. The decision also includes upgrading BMP infantry combat vehicles for the Indian Army, highlighting the government's commitment to indigenous defence production.

 HindustanAeronautics Limited (HAL) will manufacture these helicopters, with nine slated for the Indian Coast Guard and 25 for the Indian Army. The decision underscores a commitment to bolstering domestic defence capabilities and replacing older choppers. The ALH Dhruv is a versatile helicopter known for its performance in high-altitude regions like the Siachen Glacier and Ladakh.

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However, concerns persist regarding its mechanical reliability. In a related development, the government has also sanctioned a project to upgrade BMP infantry combat vehicles for the Indian Army's mechanized infantry directorate.

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These projects are expected to be valued at over Rs 8,000 crore, further emphasizing the government's focus on indigenous defence production. The Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) is a multi-role, new-generation helicopter in the 5.5-ton weight class, indigenously designed and developed by HAL.

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