The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced its plan to procure 200 Light Helicopters, specifically designated as Reconnaissance & Surveillance Helicopters (RSH), to enhance the operational capabilities of both the Indian Army and Air Force. This significant move comes as part of an initiative to modernize and strengthen India’s aerial reconnaissance and surveillance frameworks.
As per the details outlined in the Request for Information (RFI), the procurement plan allocates 120 helicopters for the Indian Army and 80 for the Indian Air Force. The issuance of this RFI aims to finalize the Services Qualitative Requirements (SQRs), ascertain the appropriate procurement category, and identify potential vendors who can meet these requirements.
The MoD has underscored the importance of indigenous defense manufacturing. In this light, the RFI encourages Indian companies to pursue collaborations with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) either through joint ventures or production partnerships. This approach is designed to foster an ecosystem that enhances domestic capabilities and technology transfer within the defense sector.
A vendor interaction session is scheduled for 22 August 2025 at 10:30 AM, where interested parties can gain further insights into the specifications and requirements of the helicopters. Responses to the RFI are expected to be submitted by 18 October 2025.
This procurement initiative is anticipated to significantly bolster India’s reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, which are crucial components of contemporary military operations. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, improving the operational readiness and efficiency of the armed forces remains a top priority for the government. This move is expected to play a vital role in ensuring that India can effectively respond to emerging security challenges.
