Indian Navy to Receive Utility Helicopter-Marine (UH-M) from Hindustan Aeronautics by 2027
The Indian Navy will start receiving the Utility Helicopter-Marine (UH-M) from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited by 2027, opting for this twin-engine model over a light utility helicopter due to safety concerns. The UH-M is designed for various maritime operations, including troop transport and search and rescue missions, and features enhancements such as anti-corrosion coatings and flotation gear. The first prototype is ready, with maiden flight testing scheduled for this financial year.
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The Indian Navy is set to begin receiving the Utility Helicopter-Marine (UH-M) from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in 2027, as it will not pursue the light utility helicopter due to its single-engine design, which does not meet naval safety requirements. The UH-M will feature a twin-engine configuration, improved landing gear, anti-corrosion coating, flotation gear, and modifications for maritime operations.
It will support troop transport, casualty evacuation, search and rescue missions, and limited combat roles. The Ministry of Defence issued a Request for Information in August 2025 for 76 naval utility helicopters, with a total project cost of Rs 5,000 crore. The first UH-M prototype is ready, with maiden flight testing planned for this financial year, followed by certification and Navy user trials.
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