India’s Bharat Electronics Limited has secured a substantial contract to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force’s Mi-17 V5 helicopter fleet through the provision of advanced electronic warfare suites and aircraft modification kits. Valued at 2.4 billion Indian Rupees, which is approximately $275 million, this agreement marks a significant step toward bolstering indigenous defense capabilities and operational effectiveness.
The contract encompasses systems that have been indigenously designed and developed by notable institutions including the Combat Aircraft Systems Development & Integration Centre and the Defence Research & Development Organisation. Central to this enhancement is an electronic warfare suite that features a radar warning receiver, a missile approach warning system, and a countermeasure dispensing system. These advanced systems are aimed at significantly improving the operational survivability of the helicopters, allowing them to conduct missions with greater safety and reliability in complex environments.
Bharat Electronics Limited’s commitment to sourcing a majority of the subsystems and parts locally is expected to provide a considerable boost to India’s defense industry, reinforcing the government’s initiative to foster self-reliance in defense production. This move not only enhances the technological capabilities of the Mi-17 V5 helicopters but also promotes the local defense ecosystem by stimulating associated industries and creating job opportunities.
The Mi-17 V5 helicopters have been a crucial component of the Indian Air Force’s fleet, with approximately 150 units currently operational. These versatile helicopters were procured in multiple batches from Russia between 2008 and 2013, primarily for operations in mountainous terrains. The Mi-17 V5 is known for its impressive capabilities, including a maximum speed of 250 kilometers per hour (155 miles per hour), a cruising speed of 230 kilometers per hour (143 miles per hour), a service ceiling of 6,000 meters (19,685 feet), and a flight range of 675 kilometers (419 miles).
The enhancement of the Mi-17 V5 fleet with these electronic warfare systems not only reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its military equipment but also signifies a strategic shift toward self-sufficiency in defense technology. As the Indian Air Force looks to fortify its operational readiness, this initiative marks an important milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to advance its defense capabilities on both a national and international scale.
