In a major development for self-reliance in defense, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) has signed three contracts on March 29, 2023, worth a total of around Rs 5,400 crore to enhance the country's defense capabilities. Two contracts have been signed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Ghaziabad, and one with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

 

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The first contract with BEL is for the procurement of an Automated Air Defense Control & Reporting System called 'Project Akashteer' for the Indian Army. This system, worth Rs 1,982 crore, will provide the Indian Army's Air Defense units with an advanced capability to effectively operate in a coordinated manner. It will enable monitoring of low-level airspace in battle areas and control the Ground Based Air Defense Weapon Systems.

 

The second contract with BEL is related to the acquisition of Sarang Electronic Support Measure (ESM) systems for the Indian Navy. This contract, valued at Rs 412 crore, includes the systems and associated engineering support package. Sarang is an indigenous and advanced ESM system designed and developed by the Defense Electronics Research Laboratory, Hyderabad. The project will create employment opportunities for approximately two lakh people over a three-year period.

 

The contract with NSIL, a Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Department of Space, Bengaluru, involves the procurement of an advanced Communication Satellite called GSAT 7B. This satellite, costing Rs 2,963 crore, will provide high throughput services to the Indian Army, significantly enhancing their communication capabilities. The satellite, developed indigenously by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), will support critical communication needs for troops, formations, weapon systems, and airborne platforms.

 

These projects fall under the 'Buy Indian - IDMM' category, promoting the participation of Indian electronics and associated industries, including MSMEs, as sub-vendors of BEL. Moreover, the satellite project will source parts, sub-assemblies, and systems from indigenous manufacturers, including MSMEs and start-ups, supporting the private Indian space industry. Over a period of three and a half years, the satellite project is expected to generate employment opportunities for approximately three lakh people.

 

These initiatives align with the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) and showcase the commitment to strengthening defense capabilities through indigenous development, production, and procurement.

 

Source: PIB