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The Ministry of Defence has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the acquisition of four fixed-wing amphibious aircraft on a four-year wet lease, signalling a renewed push to strengthen the Indian NavyтАЩs maritime surveillance, reconnaissance and search-and-rescue capabilities.
Under the proposed wet lease arrangement, the selected lessor will provide not only the aircraft but also the complete operating package, including flight and cabin crew, maintenance and insurance. The approach is aimed at delivering immediate operational capability to the Navy, without waiting for the long lead times associated with infrastructure creation, crew training and induction of a new aircraft type.
The decision is being made as IndiaтАЩs maritime responsibilities are growing, covering a coastline of more than 7,500 km and extensive areas of the Indian Ocean. It includes strategically important island territories such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep archipelago. Naval planners see amphibious aircraft, capable of operating from both runways and open water, as critical assets for responding swiftly to maritime incidents, security threats and humanitarian contingencies.
According to the RFI, the primary tasks envisaged for the aircraft include operational logistics support, long-range search and rescue, special operations, humanitarian assistance and casualty evacuation. Secondary roles would cover anti-piracy missions, anti-narcotics operations and maritime patrols, particularly in areas where conventional airfields are limited or unavailable.
It is not IndiaтАЩs first attempt to induct amphibious aircraft. Nearly a decade ago, New Delhi explored acquiring the Japanese ShinMaywa US-2 seaplane. In 2018, ShinMaywa Industries had even signed an agreement with Mahindra Defence Systems to manufacture and assemble the US-2 in India. However, the proposal eventually stalled, reportedly due to high costs and other contractual conditions.
The Indian Navy currently has no fixed-wing amphibious aircraft in service. Since it has been seen as a practical temporary solution, this approach allows for assessing operational utility without requiring a large upfront financial commitment.
The RFI specifies that responses are being sought only from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) or their authorised lessors. Interested parties are required to submit their responses in the prescribed format by March 5, 2026.
The Ministry has underlined the need for a corrosion-resistant design suitable for prolonged operations in a salty, humid maritime environment in terms of technical requirements. It requires the aircraft to have modern avionics, secure communication systems, satellite navigation, advanced sensors and visual aids, along with survival and safety equipment specifically designed for long-range search-and-rescue missions.
For the Navy, the induction of amphibious aircraft is expected to significantly enhance its ability to respond to maritime accidents, shipwrecks and natural disasters, especially in remote island regions. If the leasing plan moves forward as intended, it could also lay the groundwork for a more permanent amphibious aviation capability in the future.
Team BharatShakti
