Indian Defence Ministry Inks Deal with HAL for Procurement of 6 Dornier Aircraft for Navy and Coast Guard

NEW DELHI- The Indian Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure six Dornier 228 twin-turboprop aircraft for the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard. The deal, worth approximately Rs. 1,090 crore, is part of the government's efforts to strengthen the country's maritime security capabilities.

The Dornier 228 aircraft is a versatile platform that can be used for a variety of missions, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and transportation of personnel and cargo. It has a range of over 700 nautical miles and can operate from short, unprepared runways, making it well-suited for operations in coastal areas.

Under the terms of the contract, HAL will manufacture and deliver six Dornier 228 aircraft to the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard over the next three years. The company will also provide training, technical support, and maintenance services throughout the aircraft's operational life.

The procurement of the Dornier 228 aircraft is part of the government's efforts to modernize the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard's fleet of aircraft and ships. The aircraft will significantly enhance the country's maritime surveillance capabilities, enabling it to better monitor and secure its territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

The Dornier 228 aircraft has a proven track record of reliability and performance, having been used by navies and coast guards around the world. Its rugged construction and advanced avionics make it well-suited for operations in challenging maritime environments.

The contract signing with HAL is a significant step towards strengthening India's defence manufacturing capabilities and achieving self-reliance in defence production. It is part of the government's "Make in India" initiative, which aims to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce the country's reliance on imports.

The procurement of the Dornier 228 aircraft is expected to create employment opportunities in the aerospace and defence sectors, both directly and indirectly. It will also boost the country's export potential in the defence industry, as HAL has been licensed to manufacture the aircraft for export to other countries.

In conclusion, the contract signing with HAL for the procurement of six Dornier 228 aircraft is a significant milestone for India's defence industry and a step towards achieving self-reliance in defence production. The aircraft will significantly enhance the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard's maritime surveillance capabilities and contribute to the country's maritime security.