The Indian Air Force (IAF) will acquire 24 Special Utility Helicopters to fly the country's top constitutional dignitaries, including the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the proposal at its recent meeting in New Delhi.
A ₹10,000-Crore Replacement for the Mi-17-V5
The project is estimated at around ₹10,000 crore. The new helicopters will replace the Mi-17-V5 fleet that currently handles VVIP transport duties across India. According to the Defence Ministry, the procurement "will help the Indian Air Force meet the important air transport requirements."
The Mi-17-V5 was never a dedicated VVIP platform. The IAF adapted it for the role after an earlier VVIP helicopter deal was cancelled following a high-profile scandal. This approval finally gives the IAF a long-term, purpose-built option for moving senior national leaders on domestic missions.
Who Is in the Race?
Officials have identified two main contenders: Airbus with its H225M (also called the H-725) and a US offering from Lockheed Martin. Whichever helicopter is selected will be configured specifically for the operational and security demands of VVIP movement.
What the New Fleet Brings?
The new helicopters are expected to offer advanced avionics, improved survivability systems, enhanced communication suites and greater operational flexibility than the aircraft now in service. The Ministry of Defence sees the acquisition as a significant step towards modernising India's VVIP air transport capability while strengthening safety, reliability and mission readiness.
Key Facts for Defence Exam Aspirants
DAC approvals and IAF procurements frequently appear in the current affairs sections of NDA, CDS and AFCAT. Note these points:
- Helicopters approved: 24 Special Utility Helicopters
- Dignitaries covered: President, Vice-President and Prime Minister
- Approving body: Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by the Defence Minister
- Estimated value: Around ₹10,000 crore
- Fleet being replaced: Mi-17-V5
- Main contenders: Airbus H225M/H-725 and a Lockheed Martin-linked US offering
Defence news like this can translate into easy marks in the GAT and GK papers. At Major Kalshi Classes, our NDA, CDS and AFCAT courses include regular defence current affairs updates to keep your preparation exam-ready.
