Why in news?
The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth ₹5,083 crore on 3 March 2026 to acquire six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk‑III (Maritime Role) for the Indian Coast Guard and surface‑to‑air Vertical Launch Shtil (VL‑Shtil) missiles for the Indian Navy. The missiles will enhance air‑defence capabilities of frontline warships.
Background
The VL‑Shtil system is a medium‑range, ship‑borne surface‑to‑air missile (SAM) developed by Russia’s Almaz‑Antey corporation. It is a vertical‑launch variant of the Buk missile family and uses the 9M317ME missile. India’s procurement reflects the longstanding defence partnership between India and Russia and aims to strengthen the layered air‑defence architecture aboard Indian naval platforms.
Key features
- Medium range: The system can engage targets between roughly 3.5 km and 50 km away, at altitudes from 5 m to around 15 km.
- Multi‑target capability: It can track and engage up to 12 aerial targets simultaneously, including helicopters, fighter aircraft, anti‑ship cruise missiles and drones.
- Vertical launch: Missiles are launched vertically from a ship’s deck, allowing all‑around coverage without needing to turn the vessel. A launch interval of about 2–3 seconds enables rapid successive shots.
- Guidance: The 9M317ME missiles employ semi‑active radar homing; the ship’s 3D radar illuminates the target while the missile homes in. The system can target objects moving at speeds up to about 830 m/s.
- Automation: High levels of automation reduce reaction time and crew workload, improving survivability in contested environments.
Significance
- Enhanced naval defence: The VL‑Shtil system will form part of a multi‑layered defensive network on Indian warships, complementing other missiles and guns to counter diverse aerial threats.
- Strengthening partnerships: Procuring the Russian system underscores India’s strategic defence ties with Russia while complementing indigenous developments such as the Vertical Launch Short‑Range Surface‑to‑Air Missile (VL‑SRSAM).
- Economic impact: The broader contract includes helicopters built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and involves more than 200 MSMEs, generating employment and aligning with the Make‑in‑India initiative.
Conclusion
The VL‑Shtil missile procurement will expand the Indian Navy’s ability to defend its ships against modern aerial threats. Integrated with other sensors and weapons, the system will contribute to a robust maritime air‑defence shield.
Source: Press Information Bureau · Defense Mirror
