India Boosts Defence Self-Reliance with Rs 2,385 Crore BEL Contract

In a key step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Defence Ministry has inked a ₹2,385 crore agreement with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for incorporating upgraded Electronic Warfare (EW) suites and aircraft modification kits on Mi-17 V5 helicopters. The agreement, in the "Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured)" category, is indicative of India's push for indigenous defence production.

The EW suites, developed by DRDO and produced by BEL, consist of state-of-the-art systems such as Radar Warning Receivers, Missile Approach Warning Systems, and Counter Measure Dispensing Systems. These upgrades are intended to enhance the operational survivability of Mi-17 V5 helicopters in hostile environments.

This deal not only enhances the combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force but also reinforces indigenous industries, such as MSMEs, through the use of locally sourced most of the components. The agreement highlights India's initiative for self-reliance through the Make-in-India drive and is a giant leap towards indigenous defence capabilities.

India moves a step closer to de-imperializing from imports with this deal while developing employment and innovation in the defence sector.

Source: India Today