The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a ₹2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

The contract, signed under the Buy (Indian) category, includes Operational Role Equipment and reinforces the government’s push towards indigenous defence manufacturing. The agreement was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on February 12, 2026.

Boost to indigenous manufacturing

The programme is expected to generate significant direct and indirect employment by strengthening HAL’s production ecosystem. It will support a wide network of MSMEs and ancillary industries, contributing to India’s expanding aerospace supply chain.

Beyond manufacturing, the project will create long-term opportunities in Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and lifecycle technical support, further enhancing India’s defence aviation capabilities.

The contract underscores the government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, while strengthening maritime security preparedness.

About the Dornier 228

The Dornier 228 is a twin-engine, multi-role turboprop aircraft manufactured by HAL in India. It is known for its reliability, versatility and short take-off and landing (STOL) capability, making it suitable for operations from short and semi-prepared runways, including coastal and island territories.

Key features 

  • Twin turboprop engines for enhanced safety and performance
  • High-wing design for improved visibility during maritime surveillance
  • Capability to operate in harsh coastal and maritime environments
  • Modern avionics and mission systems for surveillance and reconnaissance
  • Ability to carry specialised equipment such as maritime radar, electro-optical sensors and communication systems

Role in Coast Guard operations

For the Indian Coast Guard, the Dornier 228 plays a critical role in:

  • Maritime surveillance and patrol
  • Search and Rescue (SAR) missions
  • Anti-smuggling and anti-poaching operations
  • Pollution response and environmental monitoring

Coastal security and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrols

With India’s coastline stretching over 7,500 km and a vast maritime zone to protect, the aircraft significantly enhances the Coast Guard’s ability to detect suspicious activity, respond to emergencies and enforce maritime law.

The induction of eight additional Dornier 228 aircraft will strengthen fleet capacity, improve mission readiness and enhance response capabilities, particularly in strategically important coastal and island regions.

Overall, the acquisition strengthens India’s maritime security architecture while reinforcing the country’s self-reliance in defence aviation manufacturing and support.