Question : Procurement of MRH

(a) whether the Navy proposed to buy new Multi-Role Helicopters (MRH) aimed at replacing the Sea King 42/42A Helicopters and if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether shortage of MRH has forced the Navy to ration its helicopter resources;

(c) whether the Navy also plans to buy Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH) to replace its outdated fleet of Chetak choppers and Naval Multi-Role Helicopters (NMRH) and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the Government plans to buy NUH and NMRH under Make in India Programme or “Strategic Partnership” Model, if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether majority of India’s 140 Warships are operating without integral utility helicopters; and

(f) if so, the remedial steps taken by the Government to accelerate Naval helicopter programmes and keep the force mission ready, in view of Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean region?

MINISTER OF STATE (DR. SUBHASH BHAMRE)
IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
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(a) to (f): The operational requirement of Indian Navy is being met with the existing fleet of helicopters. However, based on prevailing security scenario, the force levels including helicopters such a NUH, MRH and NMRH are being enhanced in accordance with the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP) and Long Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP).
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