India's Ministry of Defence Seeks 76 Naval Utility Helicopters for Navy and Coast Guard
The Ministry of Defence in India has released a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at acquiring 76 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH). This procurement includes simulators and related equipment, designed to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, with the Navy set to receive 51 helicopters and the Coast Guard 25.
This acquisition is classified under the “Buy & Make (Indian)” category, supporting the government’s initiatives of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. These helicopters are intended to bolster India’s maritime capabilities, particularly in search and rescue (SAR), utility operations, casualty evacuation, humanitarian aid, disaster relief, aerial firefighting, and low-intensity maritime operations (LIMO).
Key Specifications Outlined in the RFI:
| Proven Service Record | Helicopters must demonstrate a minimum of five years of operational duty with a Navy or Marine service in the specified configuration. Prototypes or helicopters still under development will not be eligible. |
| Weight & Design | Helicopters must have a maximum All-Up Weight (AUW) of 5,500 kg, feature a twin-engine configuration, and possess an articulated rotor system. |
| Shipborne Operations | Equipped with wheeled landing gear and blade-fold capability to facilitate storage in shipboard hangars. |
| All-Weather Operations | Ability to execute missions day and night across varying weather conditions from both ships and shore bases. |
| LIMO Role | Capability to integrate weapons such as 12.7 mm Heavy Machine Guns (HMG) and 7.62 mm Medium Machine Guns (MMG) for maritime security missions. |
Expected Operational Roles:
| Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at sea. |
| Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) or Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC). |
| Transport of passengers and cargo. |
| LIMO operations to ensure maritime security. |
| Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions during natural disasters. |
| Support for aerial firefighting efforts. |
The RFI underscores the necessity for simulators and associated training systems to maintain high operational readiness. It also highlights India's commitment to domestic manufacturing and technological independence, requiring international vendors to collaborate with Indian defence companies for production.
This RFI is the initial step in the procurement process and invites submissions from both local and international vendors. The Ministry of Defence seeks responses showcasing helicopters with a proven track record and the capability to incorporate advanced systems that meet the operational needs of the Navy and Coast Guard.
