India Signs ₹2,312 Crore Aircraft Contract with HAL to Support Coast Guard Operations

The Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Transport Aircraft Division, Kanpur, for the acquisition of eight Dornier 228 aircraft equipped with operational role systems for the Indian Coast Guard. 

The agreement was formalised in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on February 12, 2026. The procurement falls under the Buy (Indian) category, emphasising indigenous defence production.

Employment and Industrial Ecosystem Benefits

The aircraft manufacturing program is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities while strengthening HAL’s domestic production ecosystem. It will also provide a boost to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and ancillary suppliers forming part of India’s defence supply chain. 

Additionally, long-term opportunities will emerge in maintenance, repair, overhaul services, and lifecycle technical support, ensuring sustained industrial engagement.

Strengthening Maritime Security

The addition of Dornier aircraft will significantly enhance surveillance and operational readiness of the Coast Guard, helping secure India’s maritime boundaries. These aircraft will support coastal monitoring, search-and-rescue missions, and maritime law enforcement operations, thereby strengthening national security infrastructure.

HAL Share Price Performance

On February 13, 2026, HAL share price (NSE: HAL) opened at ₹4,189.00, touching the day’s high at ₹4,220.20, as of 9:59 AM on the NSE.

Also Read: HAL Aims to Raise Civil Aviation Revenue Share to 25% in 10 Yrs!

Conclusion

The contract reflects India’s continued push toward defence self-reliance while simultaneously strengthening maritime surveillance capabilities. By promoting domestic manufacturing and creating industrial opportunities, the deal aligns economic growth with national security priorities, positioning India’s defence sector for long-term expansion.

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