The Indian Navy has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to procure 76 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUHs), ANI reported yesterday (24). Of these, 51 will be inducted by the Navy, while 25 are planned for the Indian Coast Guard.

According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, helicopters will be deployed for multiple roles, including maritime search and rescue, casualty evacuation, communication duties, and Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).

The Ministry of Defence has issued a RFI to acquire 76 NUHs, simulators, and related equipment for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. As per the official information released on the Indian Navy’s website, 51 helicopters will be deployed by the Navy and 25 will be used by the Coast Guard. 

The acquisition will be made under the ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ category and is aimed at strengthening maritime search and rescue, coastal defence operations, and disaster relief.

Additionally, the selected vendor will also have to supply long-term product support, including spares, jigs, and devices for maintenance. An integrity pact, earnest money deposit, and a performance-cum-warranty bond equal to 5% of the deal are compulsory. 

The Government has also shown interest in obtaining Transfer of Technology (ToT) for licensed production in India.

(The Economic Times)