In a significant step towards military modernisation, India's Ministry of Defence has formally begun the process to acquire approximately 200 modern Reconnaissance and Surveillance Helicopters (RSH).
The ministry issued a Request for Information (RFI), signalling a major initiative to replace the armed forces' aging fleet of Chetak and Cheetah helicopters.
This long-awaited procurement aims to dramatically enhance the operational effectiveness of the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
For more than five decades, the Chetak and Cheetah helicopters have been vital assets for the Indian armed forces, particularly for operations in high-altitude areas like the Siachen Glacier.
These helicopters, based on French designs from the 1960s and produced under license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are now considered technologically obsolete.
Their vintage airframes, combined with increasing maintenance demands and a lack of modern avionics, have created critical operational gaps, making their replacement an urgent priority for national defence.
The proposed new helicopters are expected to be equipped with state-of-the-art technology. According to the RFI, the new fleet must feature advanced sensor systems for superior surveillance, improved avionics for navigation and communication, and a greater payload capacity.
These capabilities are crucial for modern warfare, enabling forces to conduct intelligence gathering, target acquisition, and aerial reconnaissance with greater precision, especially along India’s mountainous northern borders and in other strategically sensitive regions.
This procurement drive is closely aligned with the government's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) policy, which prioritises indigenous manufacturing.
The Ministry of Defence is strongly encouraging Indian companies, including the state-owned HAL and various private sector firms, to lead the development and production.
HAL's indigenously developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), which has already completed rigorous high-altitude trials, is seen as a strong contender.
While Indian manufacturers are preferred, the RFI also allows for collaboration with global aviation companies, provided they agree to a significant transfer of technology and establish manufacturing facilities within India.
This move is intended to strengthen India's domestic defence industrial base and reduce long-term dependency on foreign suppliers.
