BENGALURU: Defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Friday handed over four ALH-Mk3 Maritime Role (MR) helicopters to the Indian Coast Guard, meeting its delivery timeline under an ongoing contract and bolstering the force’s operational capabilities at sea.The helicopters were formally handed over at an event in Bengaluru to DIG Rajesh Makwana, Coast Guard Commander (Western Seaboard) by PB Rangarao, chief executive officer, HAL’s Helicopter Complex, HAL said, adding: “Documentation was transferred by the regional director, aeronautical quality assurance and HAL’s Helicopter Division to Coast Guard squadrons based in Kochi and Porbandar.”The delivery was part of a nine-helicopter contract signed in March 2024. “HAL had earlier supplied 16 ALH-Mk3 (MR) helicopters to the Coast Guard till 2022. In March 2026, the two sides signed an additional contract for six more helicopters, signalling continued reliance on the platform. “The ALH Mk III (MR) is the maritime variant of the indigenous HAL Dhruv. It is a twin-engine, multi-role helicopter designed for operations in challenging maritime conditions,” HAL said.According to HAL, the helicopter is capable of undertaking a wide range of missions, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, coastal security, law enforcement, troop transport, logistics support, and anti-piracy operations.“Equipped with advanced avionics, a glass cockpit, and night operation capability, the platform is intended to enhance the Coast Guard’s readiness across diverse maritime scenarios,” HAL said.HAL said timely induction of these helicopters would strengthen the Coast Guard’s rotary-wing fleet, particularly along key operational sectors such as the western seaboard.