TSAMTO, December 2. According to Indian media, India and the Philippines are negotiating the possibility of supplying at least seven advanced light helicopters (ALH) "Dhruv" and eight Do-228 aircraft of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
According to Business Standard, for the first time HAL announced Manila's interest in buying these two platforms in its annual report for 2020-2021. The head of HAL R.Madhavan confirmed to the publication that the company's prospects in the Philippines "look good." It is possible that the sale will be supported by the provision of a credit line by the Government of India.
In particular, Manila is evaluating the possibility of buying a marine version of the ALH Dhruv, which HAL developed at the request of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. According to the publication, Manila's purchase of a marine helicopter was reduced to a competition between HAL with Dhruv and Airbus Helicopters with AS-565 Panther. As stated, the cost of these helicopters is about the same, but the Indian company offers the best support package, including spare parts.
The cost of "Dhruv" Mk.3 is about 700 million rupees. The cost of adapting the helicopter in the marine version is estimated at another 400 million rupees, which increases the price of each machine to 1.1 billion. rupees.
Despite India's growing potential as a helicopter exporter, "end-user" problems continue to limit sales. The national content of HAL helicopters is still at the level of 50-55%, and critical systems are still imported from the UK, Israel and France. The export of helicopters requires an export permit from these countries.
In the case of a deal with the Philippines, the value of which is estimated at $30 billion. This will be the largest export contract in the history of India for the supply of defense products. If the use of the purchased helicopters and aircraft is recognized as successful, it is expected to sign export contracts for the supply of additional batches of aircraft.
